In continuation of its press release dated April 20, 2026, the Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) on Wednesday said that five accused persons have been convicted and sentenced in a long-pending embezzlement case related to misappropriation of food grains and empty bags.
The convicted individuals as per ACB statement have been identified as Abdul Khaliq Shah, Ghulam Nabi Mir, Mohammad Shafi Rather, Ghulam Hassan Hajam, and Muzaffar Ahmad Bichoo, all of whom were serving as storekeepers at various Food Supplies Sale Centres in Pahalgam, Laripora, Dawatoo, Aru, and adjoining areas at the time of the offence.
The Court of Special Judge, Anti-Corruption Court Anantnag, convicted all five accused under Section 5(2) of the J&K Prevention of Corruption Act and Section 409 of the Ranbir Penal Code (RPC).
Under Section 5(2) of the J&K Prevention of Corruption Act, each convict has been sentenced to two years of simple imprisonment along with a fine of ₹1 lakh. In case of default in payment of the fine, they will undergo an additional six months of simple imprisonment.
For the offence under Section 409 RPC, the court sentenced each convict to three years of simple imprisonment and imposed a fine of ₹2 lakh each. In default of payment, they will face an additional one year of simple imprisonment.
The case dates back to a complaint filed by the Deputy Director, Food and Supplies Department Srinagar, vide communication dated November 2, 1989, alleging embezzlement of food grains and empty bags worth ₹3,64,235.84 by the accused.
Subsequently, FIR No. 09/1990 was registered at Police Station VOK (now ACB) on June 7, 1990. After investigation, the charge sheet was filed on September 9, 2003, and the case proceeded for trial.
On April 20, 2026, the court had convicted the accused and reserved the matter for quantum of sentence, which was pronounced on April 29, 2026.
The ACB stated that the conviction reflects its continued commitment to ensuring accountability and integrity in public service and taking strict action against corruption.(KINS)
