Rangareddy Panchayat Secretary Arrested for Accepting Bribe

Hyderabad: The Anti-Corruption Bureau has arrested a panchayat secretary in Rangareddy district on charges of accepting a ₹20,000 bribe for facilitating administrative procedures.

M Sharath Kumar, who served as panchayat secretary at Veljal village under Talakondapally mandal, was caught during a covert ACB operation. According to investigators, the official had initially sought ₹30,000 from the complainant, later negotiating the amount down to ₹20,000.

The alleged bribe was demanded in exchange for uploading the complainant's site information into the online system and preparing a No Objection Certificate along with a Property Valuation Certificate. Following the ACB's sting operation, the accused was apprehended while receiving the money, and the full amount was recovered.

Legal action has commenced, with the official now facing court proceedings. The ACB has reaffirmed its commitment to investigating such matters while maintaining the confidentiality of those who lodge complaints.

Citizens encountering demands for bribes from government employees are encouraged to reach out to the ACB through its toll-free helpline at 1064. Alternative channels for reporting include WhatsApp, Facebook, and the bureau's official website. The agency has assured complainants that their identities will be safeguarded throughout the investigation process.