Anti-corruption action intensifies a day after Lakhimpur forest official was caught allegedly accepting Rs 12,000.
Lakhimpur: A day after a Lakhimpur-based forest official was caught allegedly taking a bribe, the anti-corruption wing intensified its probe by searching his residence in Guwahati. The accused, Shivashish Sandilya, an Assam Forest Service officer and former APSC topper, was arrested following a trap operation.
According to officials, Sandilya, who was serving as a Forest Ranger in Lakhimpur, was allegedly caught “red-handed” while accepting Rs 12,000 from a dumper truck owner at his official residence. Investigators believe the payment was linked to official clearances or regulatory permissions, although details remain under verification.
Subsequently, vigilance teams carried out a raid at his Guwahati home to collect further evidence and examine possible financial irregularities. Authorities confirmed that the investigation is ongoing and legal proceedings will follow based on the findings.
The case has sparked public outrage, particularly given Sandilya’s background as a top performer in the Assam Public Service Commission examination. Many have raised concerns over accountability within public services, questioning how officers selected through competitive exams become involved in such allegations.
Meanwhile, officials stressed that the incident highlights the need for stricter oversight. They noted that “strong vigilance and transparency measures” are essential to restore public trust in government institutions.
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