Court Clerk Arrested in Bribery Case Involving Judge in Mumbai

A conversation in a court washroom has led to serious allegations against an additional sessions judge in Mumbai, resulting in the arrest of a court clerk for allegedly accepting a substantial bribe. The incident has drawn attention to potential corruption within the judicial system.

According to the state Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB), the clerk, Chandrakant Vasudev, was apprehended while accepting a bribe of Rs 15 lakh from a litigant on November 11, 2023. The ACB’s remand plea outlines that during a discussion with a man attending court proceedings, Vasudev suggested, “Do something for Saheb (referring to the judge), and the order will be in your favour.”

The additional sessions judge, Ejazuddin S Kazi, is alleged to have played an active role in the bribery scheme and is currently evading authorities. The ACB reported that Vasudev admitted to accepting the bribe on Kazi’s behalf, stating that their relationship was cordial and that the judge had assisted him with personal matters.

Details of the Allegations

Vasudev, a 40-year-old clerk-typist at the civil sessions court in Mazgaon, allegedly contacted Kazi via WhatsApp during the investigation. In this communication, Kazi purportedly acknowledged the bribe and instructed Vasudev to deliver the money to his residence. The bribe amount was notably structured, comprising Rs 4 lakh in genuine currency and Rs 11 lakh in “toy” notes, which are fake currency.

The ACB began its investigation following events that transpired on September 9, 2023, when the complainant’s colleague attended a hearing regarding a long-standing property dispute. This case, which dates back to 2015, involves accusations against two individuals for forcibly occupying a commercial property in Kurla. The Bombay High Court had previously issued a stay against third-party rights over the property.

On September 12, Vasudev reportedly demanded Rs 25 lakh, claiming that Rs 10 lakh was for himself and the rest for the judge. By September 13, the amount had been negotiated down to Rs 15 lakh, which Vasudev instructed the complainant to provide in Uran. The complainant refused to comply, and on November 8, Vasudev allegedly warned that the case would turn unfavorable without payment.

Investigative Actions and Legal Proceedings

The ACB’s investigation involved multiple steps, including a visit to Kazi’s residence on November 12, where they found the premises locked. Consequently, they initiated a sealing panchnama to secure evidence. The bureau seized critical materials, including the bribe money, recordings of conversations, and Vasudev’s mobile phone, which contained communications between the two accused.

Currently, the ACB is seeking permission from the Chief Justice of the Bombay High Court to continue its investigation against Kazi under the Prevention of Corruption Act. Vasudev has been remanded to judicial custody for 14 days, with his bail application scheduled for a hearing on November 15, 2023.

This case highlights ongoing concerns regarding integrity and accountability within the judicial system. The outcome of the ACB’s investigation may have significant implications for the individuals involved and for public trust in the legal process.