In a major breakthrough against high-level corruption, the Vigilance Department of Tripura arrested Dhiman Chakma, a 2021-batch Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officer, for allegedly accepting a bribe of ₹10 lakh. Chakma is currently posted as the Sub-Collector of Dharamgarh in Kalahandi district, Odisha.
The arrest has sent shockwaves through administrative and political circles, as it marks one of the most high-profile graft cases involving a young bureaucrat in recent years.
Vigilance aatches Officer Red-Handed
According to officials from the Tripura Vigilance Department, the officer was caught red-handed while accepting the cash from a local contractor. Also, the bribe was reportedly linked to the issuance of a land conversion certificate. Which was for a commercial project.
A team led by Deputy Superintendent of Vigilance (DSV) conducted a swift and well-coordinated operation following credible inputs. “We had been tracking the movements for several days. Moreover, once the bribe transaction was confirmed, the team conducted the raid and arrested the officer,” said a senior vigilance official.
Case Registered, Investigations Begin
A case has been registered under various sections of the Prevention of Corruption Act, 1988. The ₹10 lakh cash was seized as evidence.
The accused officer is currently under judicial custody and is expected to be produced in court for further interrogation. Additionally, authorities are also investigating whether this was an isolated incident or part of a larger network of corruption in the revenue department.
A source close to the investigation revealed that digital communications and financial records from Chakma’s office and personal phone are now under scrutiny.
Government Reacts Strongly
The Tripura Chief Minister’s Office has taken immediate note of the incident. CM Dr. Manik Saha has reportedly directed top officials to ensure full transparency in the probe.
A senior official from the Department of Personnel and Training (DoPT) said, “Such behavior tarnishes the credibility of the civil services. Swift disciplinary action will follow the legal process.”
Public Outrage and Political Reactions
News of the bribery case has triggered widespread outrage across Tripura and Odisha. Public service unions have demanded stronger anti-corruption measures. Perhaps, mandatory ethics training for new officers.
Leader of Opposition Animesh Debbarma called for an independent inquiry and questioned the state’s vigilance mechanism. “This exposes loopholes in the system. Moreover, the public deserves to know how long this had been going on,” he said.
Meanwhile, civil society organizations and RTI activists have renewed demands for the revival of Lokayukta powers in Tripura, which have remained dormant for years.
Impact on Administration On IAS officer
The arrest of a serving Sub-Collector is likely to trigger a shakeup within the administrative ranks. Also, the Kalahandi district administration has already initiated an internal review of all files and projects previously handled by Chakma.
Furthermore, a replacement officer has been assigned temporarily to ensure that public services remain uninterrupted.
Calls for Stronger Anti-Corruption Systems
The incident highlights the urgent need for institutional reforms. Further, especially in districts where officers handle significant discretionary powers in land and development approvals.
Experts have suggested the use of digital file tracking, mandatory declaration of assets, and rotation policies to prevent officers from developing cozy relationships with local contractors and power brokers.
- Read more about anti-corruption efforts in Tripura
- For details on the Prevention of Corruption Act, visit prsindia.org
The IAS officer bribery case in Tripura has reignited debates on transparency, ethics, and accountability in public service. Lastly, as the investigation unfolds, it will test the government’s resolve in cracking down on corruption. Nevertheless, restoring public faith in the bureaucracy.
