TV
In a major development in the Odisha Bridge and Roof Corporation bribery case, the Orissa High Court has dismissed the petition filed by senior IAS officer Bishnupada Sethi challenging the CBI raid on his residence. The case involves allegations of a Rs 10 lakh bribe.
Earlier, the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) had conducted a raid at Bishnupada Sethi's residence in connection with bribery charges. Sethi had moved the High Court opposing the CBI action. During the preliminary hearing, the High Court had issued an interim stay on any coercive action against him.
However, the court has now lifted that interim protection, thereby increasing the possibility of Sethi’s arrest. With the rejection of his plea, the legal pressure on the IAS officer has intensified.
Background of the case
Notably, CBI officials had conducted an extensive search at the official residence of senior Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officer Bishnupada Sethi in Bhubaneswar on February 18.
Must Read: Bribery case: Orissa High Court directs to maintain interim protection of IAS Bishnupada Sethi
An eight-member CBI team from New Delhi arrived at Sethi’s official quarters, initiating searches connected to alleged irregularities linked to the Bridge and Roof Company Limited. They also reportedly quizzed Sethi about the matter.
The investigation was related to the alleged discrepancies involving the Bridge and Roof Company.
Earlier on March 4, the Orissa High Court ordered to maintain the interim protection for Sethi, along with his spouse and daughter, until the next hearing. The court's directive came in response to Sethi's petition, which prompted the government to table a formal reply. Sethi had also requested additional time to counter the government's response.
