STATE TIMES NEWS
JAMMU: The Jammu and Kashmir Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) continued its strong and focused drive against corruption during 2025, reinforcing transparency, accountability, and integrity in public administration. Through firm legal action, preventive vigilance, and public outreach, the Bureau strengthened public confidence in governance and sent a clear message that corruption will not be tolerated.
Quoting an ACB official, the Bureau said, “Our approach in 2025 has been firm, fair, and professional. We have acted decisively against corrupt elements while also working to close systemic gaps that allow corruption to flourish. Every complaint received by us is examined seriously, and no one is above the law.”
During the year, the ACB registered and investigated 78 corruption-related cases, including 36 trap cases, 18 disproportionate assets cases, 15 cases of abuse of official position, 8 cases related to a major custodian land scam, and one case of illegal appointments. The Bureau filed charge-sheets in 43 cases, ensuring timely prosecution. Courts delivered judgments in several matters, resulting in seven convictions involving 13 accused persons, reflecting the Bureau’s effective investigation and prosecution.
An ACB official stated, “The exposure of the large land scam and successful convictions in multiple cases underline our resolve to protect public assets and punish those who misuse their authority.”
Preventive vigilance also remained a key focus. The Bureau carried out 703 verifications and disposed of 764 matters, including cases from previous years. To plug loopholes and improve governance, 41 alert notes and 91 advisories were issued to government departments. District Vigilance Officers further strengthened the system by referring thousands of cases. In 2025 alone, 3,960 matters were disposed of, ensuring quick grievance redressal. The Bureau also conducted 18 new Joint Surprise Checks and finalized 19 checks, while 25 Preliminary Enquiries were initiated, with most concluded within the year.
Public awareness and training were equally prioritized. The ACB organized vigilance programmes, workshops, and training sessions to promote integrity and build capacity. Reaffirming its zero-tolerance policy, the ACB official said, “We rely on citizens’ support to build a corruption-free Jammu and Kashmir, and we assure them of fairness, confidentiality, and professionalism in every case.”