New Delhi (Agency): A state sales tax department inspector, along with an accomplice, has been booked for an alleged extortion attempt on a judge of the Goods and Services Tax (GST) tribunal in Nagpur, Maharashtra. The incident has raised concerns about the misuse of authority and threats against judicial officers.
The police have registered a case against inspector Rajkumar Diwase of the sales tax department and his accomplice Prakash Gaikwad under section 385 (extortion) and other relevant provisions of the Indian Penal Code. According to senior inspector Sanjay Mendhe of Sadar police station, the case stems from allegations that Diwase threatened and attempted to extort Rs 15 lakh from judge Ramesh Bhagu Zaid (59), a former joint commissioner in the state sales tax department.
The alleged extortion came to light when Zaid reportedly received messages from Diwase, threatening to expose him with the help of an RTI activist and warning of potential physical harm unless he paid Rs 15 lakh. The incident is said to be connected to Diwase’s earlier request to Zaid to prevent a transfer order issued to him in November of the previous year.
When Zaid declined the request for financial assistance, the accused allegedly escalated their demands, with Gaikwad also making extortion calls to the judge. The investigation revealed that the two accused were working in collaboration to carry out the extortion attempt.
In response to the allegations, the accused were summoned to the Sadar police station on Saturday. The case has sparked discussions about the need for safeguards against corruption and abuse of power within government departments, particularly when it involves threats against judicial officials.
In conclusion, the alleged extortion attempt on a judge of the GST tribunal highlights the importance of upholding ethical conduct and preventing misuse of authority within government institutions. The case serves as a reminder of the need for vigilance and accountability to ensure the safety and integrity of individuals serving in key roles within the judicial system.
