The Odisha High Court has granted interim protection to senior IAS officer Bishnupada Sethi, offering him and his family temporary relief amid an ongoing bribery investigation.
The CBI recently conducted a raid at Sethi’s residence in connection with an alleged Rs 10 lakh bribe involving the Bridge and Roof Corporation Limited.
Following the raid, Sethi moved the High Court seeking anticipatory bail. The court, after preliminary hearings, directed that no coercive action be taken against him or his immediate family. While Sethi’s name was not mentioned in the FIR, the CBI had extended its investigation to his residence, prompting the legal move.
The case revolves around the alleged demand for a Rs 10 lakh bribe to clear a bill, in which Sethi’s involvement is suspected but not yet proven. The Odisha High Court has now scheduled the next round of hearings for July 8.
This interim order serves as a crucial breathing space for the IAS officer, as the investigation continues to unfold.
