Woman PDO caught in bribery case creates drama after Lokayukta trap in Mysuru
The incident was reported from the Mulluru Gram Panchayat office in Hunsur taluk. The accused official, identified as Manjula, was working as a PDO at the time of the incident.
Mysuru: A bribery case involving a Panchayat Development Officer (PDO) in Mysuru district took a dramatic turn after the accused attempted self-harm following a Lokayukta raid. The officer was caught red-handed while allegedly accepting part of a bribe amount at her workplace.
The incident was reported from the Mulluru Gram Panchayat office in Hunsur taluk. The accused official, identified as Manjula, was working as a PDO at the time of the incident. The case began with a complaint from Mahadev, whose father Swamy had been employed as a waterman in the panchayat. After his father’s death, Mahadev was appointed under compassionate grounds.
Despite this, the pending salary of his father, amounting to around ₹4 lakh, remained unpaid for nearly two years. Mahadev alleged that the PDO demanded ₹50,000 to release the dues.
Refusing to pay the bribe, Mahadev approached Lokayukta officials. Based on his complaint, a trap was laid to catch the accused in the act. During the operation, Manjula was allegedly caught while accepting ₹25,000 as part of the bribe. Officials said the marked currency was recovered from her during the raid.
The situation escalated immediately after the raid. The accused reportedly attempted to create a diversion by injuring herself with a sharp object inside the office premises. Officials said the act appeared to be a deliberate attempt to obstruct the investigation and avoid immediate arrest. The sudden move caused confusion among those present at the scene.
The Lokayukta team quickly intervened and ensured that the accused received immediate medical attention. She was taken to K.R. Hospital in Mysuru. Doctors confirmed that her injuries were not life-threatening and that her condition is stable. She continues to remain under medical observation.
Officials stated that the investigation will proceed once she is discharged. They added that all legal procedures will be followed, and appropriate action will be taken based on the findings. The incident has once again brought attention to the growing number of corruption cases involving public officials. Authorities emphasised the need for stricter vigilance and accountability in government offices.
