Guwahati, Sep 18 (IANS): A member of a Foreigners Tribunal in Assam’s Udalguri district has been arrested for allegedly demanding Rs 15,000 from a person in connection with granting bail in a case, police said on Friday.
The accused, identified as Bhupen Chandra Pegu, was arrested following an investigation into a complaint lodged at Mazbat Police Station in the district.
According to a police statement, an FIR was registered on August 29 after a complaint alleged that Pegu had sought Rs 15,000 in connection with bail proceedings before the Foreigners Tribunal. Police have booked the accused under Section 308(2) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), which deals with extortion.
Authorities have not disclosed the identity of the complainant or provided details about the tribunal case in which the alleged demand was made.
The arrest follows an investigation into allegations of financial misconduct involving an official associated with the quasi-judicial system that deals with citizenship-related proceedings in Assam.
Foreigners Tribunals were established to examine cases involving individuals suspected of being foreigners under the applicable legal framework. These bodies determine whether a person referred to them is an Indian citizen or a foreigner, based on evidence and legal provisions governing the proceedings.
The alleged demand for money in connection with bail has raised concerns about the integrity of proceedings involving individuals whose citizenship status is under scrutiny. However, the allegations against Pegu remain subject to investigation and legal proceedings.
Police have not released further information regarding the evidence collected during the investigation or whether additional individuals are being questioned in connection with the case.
The case comes amid continued scrutiny of administrative and legal processes related to citizenship determination in Assam, where Foreigners Tribunals play a significant role in adjudicating disputes.
Further details regarding the investigation and court proceedings are awaited.
