Patna: Patna Municipal Corporation (PMC) has suspended two employees posted in the revenue section of its Patliputra Zone and lodged a First Information Report (FIR) against them and a third individual following allegations of demanding illegal payments for property mutation and certificate-related services.
The suspended employees have been identified as Jitendra Kumar and Pankaj Kumar. The FIR has been registered at Kotwali Police Station, Patna, against the two employees and an external individual, Rinku Kumar.
Action Follows Sting Operation Report
According to the Municipal Corporation, the action was initiated after a news portal published a report and video of a sting operation on Thursday. The report alleged that the three individuals demanded and accepted illegal payments for processing property mutation applications and issuing birth and death certificates.
Taking cognisance of the allegations, the Corporation said it immediately initiated departmental proceedings. Both employees were suspended with immediate effect, while criminal proceedings were also initiated to facilitate an impartial investigation.
Corporation Reiterates Zero-Tolerance Policy
PMC said it would take the strictest action permissible under the rules against anyone found guilty after the investigation.
The civic body reiterated that it follows a zero-tolerance policy towards corruption, irregularities and misuse of official position. It stated that departmental and legal action has been taken in previous cases where similar complaints were substantiated and that the same approach would continue in future.
Citizens Advised to Use Online Services
The Municipal Corporation also reminded residents that applications for property mutation, payment of prescribed fees and the entire processing system are conducted exclusively through its online platform.
It said applicants do not need to visit Municipal Corporation offices or approach any employee or intermediary to complete the process. Citizens have been advised to submit applications and make payments only through the authorised online system and avoid dealing with unauthorised persons.
Appeal to Report Corruption
PMC appealed to the public to report any instance in which an employee, official or any other person demands illegal payment or attempts to solicit or offer a bribe for government work.
The Corporation said complaints supported by available evidence would be investigated promptly, and appropriate departmental and legal action would be taken against those found responsible.
