CBI Arrests IRS Officer Amit Kumar and Private Individual Harsh Kotak for Accepting a ₹25 Lakh Bribe. ₹45 Lakh Bribe Demanded in Exchange for Tax Assistance. Raids Conducted in Delhi, Punjab, and Mumbai.
New Delhi: In a recent major operation, the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) arrested Amit Kumar, a 2007 batch IRS officer, and a private individual, Harsh Kotak, red-handed while accepting a bribe of ₹25 lakh. These arrests followed raids conducted in New Delhi, Punjab, and Mumbai.
IRS Officer Accused of Demanding ₹45 Lakh Bribe
Amit Kumar, at the time of his arrest, was serving as an Additional Director in the Taxpayer Service Department, New Delhi. He is accused of demanding a bribe of ₹45 lakh from a complainant through Harsh Kotak, in exchange for assistance with tax-related matters. The complainant was threatened with legal repercussions and heavy penalties if the money was not paid. Based on this complaint, the CBI launched an investigation and apprehended both accused while accepting the first installment of ₹25 lakh.
CBI Operation: Raids in Delhi, Punjab, and Mumbai
In this case, the CBI conducted raids at multiple locations in Delhi, Punjab, and Mumbai. During these raids, CBI officers collected crucial documents and electronic evidence. The investigative agency meticulously planned the operation and caught Amit Kumar and Harsh Kotak red-handed while accepting the bribe. It is reported that the CBI executed this operation with utmost secrecy to prevent the accused from getting wind of it.
CBI's Strong Action Against Corruption
The CBI has taken this bribery case very seriously. Officials state that corruption at any level will not be tolerated. This action was taken to maintain transparency and integrity in the tax system. The CBI has clarified that strict action will continue against those found guilty in such corruption cases.
Bribe Demanded Under Threat of Legal Entanglement
The investigation revealed that Amit Kumar and Harsh Kotak pressured the complainant, threatening legal action under tax regulations and imposing heavy penalties if the money was not paid. The complainant subsequently contacted the CBI for assistance. Following this, the CBI devised a plan and arrested both accused red-handed.
IRS Officer's Tarnished Career
Amit Kumar is a 2007 batch IRS officer. He has served in several important positions, but this arrest has now embroiled his career in controversy. Based on the evidence gathered by the CBI, stringent legal action will now be taken against him.
