A Special Judge at Delhi’s Rouse Avenue Court has been transferred following allegations of bribe demands in exchange for granting bail. While the Delhi High Court found the current evidence against the judge insufficient, it has allowed the Anti-Corruption Branch (ACB) to continue its investigation.
The controversy began on Jan. 29, when the ACB wrote to Principal Secretary of Department of Law, Justice, and Legislative Affairs, seeking permission to initiate a probe against the judge and the court’s ahlmad (clerk). The request, which included audio recordings and multiple complaints, alleged that court officials demanded up to Rs 1 crore for bail.
According to ACB, the allegations surfaced in connection with a 2023 GST fraud case, where 16 accused, including a GST officer, were arrested. After bail pleas were delayed or dismissed, one of the accused’s relatives claimed they were asked to pay hefty bribes for favourable outcomes. Refusing to pay reportedly led to bail being denied, while pressure continued.
Despite these serious claims, the Delhi HC, on Feb. 14, concluded that there was “no sufficient material” to permit action against the judge at that point. However, it encouraged the ACB to resume its probe and return with more evidence if found.
On May 16, the ACB filed an FIR against the ahlmad under the Prevention of Corruption Act. The Special Judge was subsequently transferred on May 20.