Kolhapur (Maharashtra): Prashant Tarachand Rathi, an Executive Engineer at Maharashtra State Electricity Distribution Company Limited (MSEDCL), was caught red-handed on Tuesday afternoon by the Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) in Kolhapur while accepting a Rs 30,000 bribe. The arrest was made during a trap laid at MSEDCL's main office after Rathi allegedly demanded a bribe to approve electricity connections for a residential building.

₹90,000 Bribe Demanded Initially For Granting 18 Electric Connections

Rathi, a resident of Upkar Residency on Sangli Road and originally from Amravati, had initially demanded Rs 90,000, charging Rs 5,000 per flat, for granting electricity connections to 18 flats, reported Lokmat Times. Following negotiations, he agreed to settle the bribe amount at Rs 30,000.

The complainant, an electrical contractor who had submitted all required documents for the new electricity connections, approached the ACB after Rathi made the illegal demand. During the verification process, Rathi reiterated his demand, leading to the successful sting operation.

Accused Official Taken To Hospital Due To Spike In Blood Pressure

Soon after the arrest, Rathi reportedly experienced uneasiness and a spike in blood pressure. He was immediately taken to IGM Hospital and later shifted to the ICU. Authorities also began arrangements to transfer him to CPR Hospital in Kolhapur for further treatment as his condition deteriorated.

In an unusual reaction to the arrest, some individuals, reportedly disgruntled by Rathi’s alleged corrupt practices, celebrated outside the MSEDCL office by bursting firecrackers. The public display of joy hinted at long-standing frustration within sections of the local residents over Rathi's conduct.

Similar Cases Of Corruption Reported Earlier Involving MSEDCL Officials

This case is part of a troubling pattern within MSEDCL. At least five similar actions have been previously taken by the ACB against MSEDCL officials, employees and contractors, pointing to a recurring issue of corruption in the department.

Following the arrest, ACB teams extended their investigation by conducting searches at Rathi’s properties in Amravati and Ichalkaranji. The aim is to uncover further evidence related to the bribery case and probe any additional irregularities. A case was registered at Shivajinagar Police Station, and further investigations are underway.