VINOD KUMAR Vs. STATE OF PUNJAB

JUDGEMENT

(1.) Vide this judgment, the above mentioned two appeals, would be disposed of as the judgment/order dated 4.9.2003 passed by the Special Judge are under challenge.

(2.) Vide judgment/order dated 4.9.2003, the Special Judge ordered the conviction of the appellants-Vinod Kumar and Sukhdev Singh Virdi qua commission of offence punishable under Section 13 (1)(d) read with Section 13(2) of the Prevention of Corruption Act, 1988 (for short 'the Act) and Sections 420, 467, 468, 471,120-B of the Indian Penal Code,1860.

(3.) Prosecution story, in brief, is that a secret information was received by the Vigilance Bureau on 14.6.1996 that Baldev Singh, Sarpanch had identified Harbahajan Singh, Vir Kaur to enable them to receive compensation. Although, Vir Kaur had died on 30.8.1991, but she was identified by Baldev Singh, Sarpanch which facilitiated Harbahajan Singh to receive compensation with regard to land owned by her. During investigation, it transpired that Baldev Singh, Sarpanch had identified thumb impressions of Harbhajan Singh, Gurbachan Singh and Vir Kaur although Vir Kaur had died on 30.8.1991. On this identification, Harbhajan Singh got compensation to the tune of Rs. 2,10,65/-. With regard to other claimants, it transpired during investigation that although cheques had been issued in their favour with regard to more amounts but appellants had made payment to them of lesser amount.