CBI Investigates Four CGST Officials Over Rs 5 Lakh Bribery Allegation in Madurai

The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has filed a case against four Central GST officials in Madurai for allegedly demanding a bribe of Rs 5 lakh from a local transport businessman. The officials, including Deputy Commissioner M Saravanakumar, Superintendents Ashok and Rajbir Singh Rana, and Inspector Sameer, have been charged under Section 61(2) of the Indian Penal Code for criminal conspiracy and Section 7 of the Prevention of Corruption Act.

Businessman V Karthik lodged a complaint with the CBI’s anti-corruption branch in Madurai on December 2, alleging extortion attempts by the officials. According to the complaint, Ashok and Rajbir Singh Rana visited Karthik’s residence on October 24, claiming that the CGST Chennai office had received a complaint about his alleged tax evasion of Rs 2 crore.

Subsequently, Karthik was summoned to appear before Deputy Commissioner Saravanakumar on November 12. During the meeting, the officials allegedly demanded either a Rs 1.5 crore penalty or Rs 20 lakh as a bribe to settle his GST account. Despite Karthik’s efforts to negotiate, the bribe demand was reduced to Rs 5 lakh by November 25.

Karthik, accompanied by his auditor, attended another meeting with the officials, during which they insisted on the payment. Following persistent pressure, Karthik decided to approach the CBI. He provided audio recordings of his telephonic conversations with one of the officials, Ashok Kumar, as evidence.

After a preliminary inquiry confirmed the allegations, the CBI sought consent from the Tamil Nadu Home Secretary and officially registered the case. The investigation into the matter is ongoing.

This incident highlights the persistent challenges of corruption within the tax administration system and the need for robust measures to ensure accountability.