Patna, March 26th 2026, Suman Kumari, Legal Correspodent: In a significant step towards strengthening transparency and accountability in public administration, a Vigilance Court in Patna has convicted a government official in a corruption case dating back to 2007. The judgment is being seen as a strong message against bribery and misuse of public office.
According to the official press release, the court of the Special Judge, Vigilance, Patna, found Krishnadev Paswan, then posted as Head Clerk-cum-Accountant in the Dehri-on-Sone Municipal Council (Rohtas district), guilty under provisions of the Prevention of Corruption Act, 1988.
The case originated from a complaint filed by Sudhir Kumar Rawat, a tax collector, who alleged that the accused demanded a bribe of ₹3,500 to facilitate his rejoining after suspension. During a trap operation conducted by the Vigilance Investigation Bureau, Paswan was caught red-handed while accepting ₹2,900 on June 14, 2007, after already taking ₹600 earlier.
The court has sentenced the convict to:
- Two years of rigorous imprisonment along with a fine of ₹20,000 under Section 7 of the Act
- Three years of rigorous imprisonment and an additional fine of ₹20,000 under Section 13(2) read with 13(1)(d)
Both sentences will run concurrently, and failure to pay the fine will result in additional imprisonment.
The prosecution was effectively led by Special Public Prosecutor Kishore Kumar Singh, whose efforts ensured a successful conviction in the long-pending case.
Officials highlighted that this is one of six corruption cases in 2026 where convictions have been secured so far, reflecting the consistent and result-oriented functioning of the Vigilance Investigation Bureau.
Hon’ble Special Judge (Vigilance) Mohammad Rustam, has shown commendable integrity and firmness in delivering justice, reinforcing strong action against corruption and upholding the rule of law.
Sources within the vigilance department noted that such outcomes underscore the department’s firm commitment to eliminating corruption and ensuring that public servants remain accountable. The leadership and supervision of senior vigilance officials, including top-ranking officers like Director General of Vigilance Investigation Bureau J.S. Gangwar, have been instrumental in maintaining the momentum of anti-corruption actions across Bihar.
The conviction sends a clear deterrent signal: even cases that are years old will be pursued to their logical conclusion, and those found guilty will face strict legal consequences.
