GUWAHATI: The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has initiated search operations at 11 locations in Delhi and Nagaland as part of an investigation into a case concerning the recovery of unaccounted cash, amounting to approximately ₹71.5 lakh, suspected to be bribe money. The searches, conducted at the premises of the accused, have led to the recovery of incriminating documents and digital devices.
The CBI has registered a case against three government officials from Nagaland: Jitendra Gupta, an Additional Secretary in the Department of Agriculture; Rampaukai, a Deputy Conservator of Forest; and Auto Vihoi, a Veterinary Assistant Surgeon in the Department of Animal Husbandry. The accused officials were allegedly involved in a project called FOCUS (Fostering Climate Resilient Upland Farming System) in Nagaland.
The case came to light following the recovery of ₹71.5 lakh in cash from the possession of the accused while they were traveling from Dimapur to Delhi by air. Subsequent questioning by the Income Tax Department revealed that the cash belonged to the accused Additional Secretary, who allegedly took it as a bribe from individuals associated with the project in exchange for approving bills.
Further investigations have revealed allegations of conspiracy by the accused in receiving and transporting the bribe amount to Delhi. The CBI's investigation into the matter is ongoing.