JAMMU: The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has arrested three persons, including a Sub-Divisional Agriculture Officer (SDAO), in an alleged bribery case linked to the release of subsidy under the Holistic Agriculture Development Programme (HADP).
The accused have been identified as Rajan Sharma, SDAO, Akhnoor; HithAbhilashi Sharma, Agricultural Extension Assistant (AEA); and Ashok Kumar, a private individual. The identifications have been reported by local media citing the CBI.
According to the CBI account, the agency received a complaint alleging that the SDAO had demanded ₹35,000 from the complainant for facilitating the processing and release of subsidy under the HADP scheme. During verification, the alleged demand was corroborated, following which the CBI registered the case on September 19, 2026.
The CBI alleged that the SDAO directed the complainant to hand over the money either to the AEA or to the private individual. As part of the trap operation, the AEA and the private individual were allegedly caught red-handed while demanding and accepting ₹15,000, stated to be the first instalment of the alleged bribe.
The remaining ₹20,000 was allegedly to be paid subsequently, according to reports citing preliminary findings of the agency. The SDAO was subsequently arrested from his residence.
The CBI has taken up further investigation to establish the complete circumstances surrounding the alleged bribery demand.
