Patna, August 27, 2026 (Yes Punjab News)
The Bihar Vigilance Investigation Bureau on Thursday arrested Kanchan Kumari Jha, Deputy Collector Land Reforms (DCLR) of Rosera in Samastipur district, for allegedly accepting a Rs 2 lakh bribe to settle a land dispute.
The anti-corruption operation was carried out at Jha’s government residence in Rosera following a complaint by Manoj Kumar Mahto of Vibhutipur, whose land dispute was pending before the DCLR.
According to the allegations, Jha had demanded Rs 2 lakh in cash and a washing machine in return for resolving the matter in the complainant’s favour. The Vigilance Department said it verified the allegations before launching the trap operation.
At around 9 a.m. on Thursday, the complainant accompanied Vigilance officials to Jha’s residence, where she was allegedly caught accepting Rs 2 lakh.
Following the arrest, the Vigilance team secured the government residence and conducted a detailed search. Officials examined documents, cupboards and other materials as part of the investigation.
Around Rs 13 lakh in cash was reportedly recovered during the search. However, the recovery was yet to be officially confirmed by the Vigilance Department. Officials were examining the source of the cash along with other documents and materials recovered from the premises.
Rosera police personnel were also deployed outside the residence as the Vigilance team continued the search and documentation. A crowd gathered after news of the arrest spread, but the area was secured to protect the investigation and evidence.
Jha, who is originally from Madhubani district, has served as Rosera DCLR for around one-and-a-half years. The DCLR is responsible for important aspects of Bihar’s revenue administration, including hearing land-related disputes and appeals.
Her arrest has caused a stir in administrative circles in Samastipur. The Vigilance Department is continuing its investigation into the alleged bribery transaction, the reported cash recovery and other documents seized during the search.
FOLLOW NOW
