Khagaria/Patna: A joint police operation in Bihar’s Khagaria district has raised questions over the alleged use of a government identity after a man who reportedly claimed to be an IAS officer was arrested and luxury vehicles, foreign liquor, electronic devices and other items were recovered from his premises.
The raid was conducted on Saturday by the District Crime Unit (DIU) and Gogri police at the premises of Manish Kumar Gupta, alias Chikku, in Jamalpur Bazaar under Gogri police station.
According to police sources, the operation began at about 1pm and continued until 8.30pm.
Tesla And SUV Bearing Government Markings
Among the most notable items reportedly seized were a Tesla Model Y and another SUV, both allegedly carrying the words ‘Government of India’.
The vehicles and their markings are now likely to form a significant part of the investigation.
Police will need to establish whether the vehicles were officially associated with any government department or whether the markings were displayed without authorisation.
The investigation is also expected to establish whether the alleged use of a government identity was intended to create an impression of official authority or was linked to any attempt to influence people or institutions.
Man Claimed To Be IAS Officer
Police sources said Gupta repeatedly claimed during questioning that he was an IAS officer and also claimed to have links with senior officials, including National Security Adviser Ajit Doval.
The police have not publicly established the veracity of these claims.
The circumstances surrounding the alleged identity are now a key part of the investigation, including how long Gupta may have presented himself as a government officer and whether he used the alleged identity in any official or private dealings.
Police are also expected to verify his claimed credentials, cadre and posting.
Foreign Liquor Recovered Despite Bihar Ban
The raid also reportedly resulted in the recovery of bottles of foreign liquor, with some bottles estimated by police sources to be worth more than Rs 1 lakh.
As prohibition is in force in Bihar, investigators are expected to examine the source of the liquor, how it reached the premises and whether others were involved in its procurement or distribution.
A laptop, computer and multiple ATM cards were also reportedly recovered.
Police also found a pair of antlers and a statue wrapped in a sheet. The significance and legality of these items, if confirmed, will be determined during the investigation.
Claim Of Assets Worth More Than Rs 100 Crore
Another allegation attracting attention is that Gupta possesses assets worth more than Rs 100 crore.
Police have yet to establish the claim, and the investigation will need to determine the source of any such wealth, including properties, investments, businesses and other assets allegedly linked to him.
Investigators may also examine whether assets are held directly in his name or through other individuals and entities.
Reports that Gupta has a brother living in Canada have also emerged, although having a relative abroad is not, by itself, evidence of wrongdoing. Any relevance of overseas connections would depend on what investigators establish about financial transactions or other activities.
Investigation To Establish The Larger Picture
The case goes beyond the recovery of a luxury car or liquor, with investigators now facing questions about the alleged government identity, the use of ‘Government of India’ markings, the source of the reported wealth and the possible involvement of others.
Police have not yet released a detailed official account establishing all the allegations that have surfaced.
The investigation will determine whether Gupta actually impersonated a government officer, whether the alleged identity was used to obtain any advantage, and whether anyone else was involved.
