The Uttarakhand Vigilance team on Thursday arrested Block Education Officer (BEO) Brijpal Singh Rathore and a government school headmaster, Mukesh, for allegedly accepting a ₹20,000 bribe. The officers were taken for extensive questioning before being escorted to Dehradun. Notably, the BEO’s wife is posted as a Circle Officer (CO) in the Dehradun Police.
Details of the Case
The complaint stated that the Police Modern School of the 40th Battalion PAC, Haridwar required a renewal certificate for official recognition, which was to be issued by the Education Department. The complainant alleged that BEO Brijpal Singh Rathore demanded ₹20,000 in exchange for issuing the certificate. Following the complaint, the vigilance team set up a trap at the BEO’s office in Roshanabad, where both Rathore and headmaster Mukesh were caught red-handed.
Investigation revealed that Mukesh, who also serves as a Block Resource Person (BRP), was acting on behalf of the BEO and facilitated the bribe demand.
Searches Conducted
After the arrests, the vigilance team conducted searches at the BEO’s residence in Yamuna Colony, Dehradun, seizing documents and other relevant items. Mukesh’s residence in Kankhal was also searched for additional evidence.
The case highlights ongoing vigilance actions in Uttarakhand against corruption in the education sector, particularly involving certificate issuance and administrative approvals.
