STATE OF PUNJAB Vs. LAKHWINDER SINGH

JUDGEMENT

(1.) This criminal appeal has been filed by appellant-State of Punjab challenging the impugned judgment of acquittal dated 24.1.2003 passed by learned Special Judge, Gurdaspur, whereby the respondent-accused has been acquitted of the charge under Section 13(1)(e) read with Section 13(2) of the Prevention of Corruption Act, 1988 (hereinafter referred to as 'the Act').

(2.) The brief facts of the prosecution case are that on 3.3.1994, DSP (Vigilance Bureau), Gurdaspur, received a secret information that accused-Lakhwinder Singh, who was posted as General Manager, Punjab Roadways, Pathankot, collected properties by illegal means during the period from 1986 to 1989 and purchased property in the names of his wife, children and sister of the value of Rs. 1,63,534/-, whereas his income was Rs. 31,363/- and thus, he was in possession of assets of the value of Rs. 1,22,168/-, which were disproportionate to his known sources of income.

(3.) On presentation of challan, the trial Court finding prima facie case against the accused/respondent, framed charge for the offence under Section 13(1)(e) read with Section 13(2) of the Act, to which the accused pleaded not guilty and claimed trial.