Two GSDA Geologists Arrested by ACB in ₹2 Lakh Bribery Case in Pune
Two GSDA Geologists Arrested by ACB in ₹2 Lakh Bribery Case in Pune
A coordinated anti-corruption operation in Pune has led to the arrest of two officials from the Groundwater Survey and Development Agency (GSDA) for allegedly demanding and accepting a bribe linked to a construction clearance process.
The Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) conducted a trap at the GSDA office in Shivajinagar on Friday, where junior geologist Priyanka Sandipan Ghule, 39, was caught while accepting ₹2 lakh. Officials said the money was being collected on behalf of senior geologist Diwakar Namdev Dhote, 53. Both were subsequently taken into custody.
According to ACB officials, the case began when a city-based builder applied for a completion certificate from the Pune Metropolitan Region Development Authority (PMRDA). As part of the process, he was required to submit a groundwater survey report.
An ACB officer said, “When the complainant approached the GSDA office, the junior geologist demanded ₹2.5 lakh, stating that the payment was required to obtain approval from the senior geologist.”
The complainant later met Dhote on April 22 to discuss the demand. The officer added, “During their meeting, the amount was reduced and the senior geologist agreed to accept ₹2 lakh.”
Unwilling to pay the bribe, the builder approached the ACB and filed a complaint. After verifying the allegations, a team led by Inspector Suhad Hattekar set up a trap at the office. An official described the operation, saying, “The junior geologist was caught red-handed while accepting the bribe at the GSDA office.”
Investigators also found coordination between the two accused. An officer stated, “The junior geologist had directed the complainant to meet the senior geologist to finalize the deal.”
A case has been registered at Shivajinagar police station under relevant sections of the Prevention of Corruption Act, 1988, and further investigation is ongoing.
An ACB official said, “This action is part of our ongoing efforts to curb corruption in government departments.”
