In a significant crackdown on corruption, the Punjab Vigilance Bureau has arrested District Town Planner (DTP) Ritika Arora in Gurdaspur for allegedly accepting a bribe of Rs 1 lakh for approving colony-related work. The arrest comes as part of the state government’s intensified drive to eliminate corruption from public offices, especially in departments dealing with real estate and urban planning.
The officer was caught red-handed inside her office while accepting the bribe, following a well-planned trap laid by the Vigilance Bureau after receiving a formal complaint.
Complaint by a Local Resident Triggers Action
According to officials, the complainant, Gurjeet Singh, a resident of Lehal village, had purchased around 7 kanal and 17.5 marla of land, where he developed residential plots. For registering these plots, he submitted an application at the District Town Planner’s office.
However, Singh alleged that instead of processing the application, Ritika Arora deliberately delayed the matter. When questioned about the delay, she reportedly told him that although the documents were complete, “colony work is not done for free” and demanded Rs1 lakh per plot to approve the registrations.
Refusing to pay the bribe, Singh approached the Vigilance Bureau, seeking action against the officer.
Vigilance Bureau Sets Trap, Officer Arrested
After verifying the complaint, the Vigilance Bureau team in Gurdaspur laid a trap and caught the DTP while accepting Rs 1 lakh from the complainant. The arrest was made on the spot, and legal proceedings are now underway.
Officials confirmed that Ritika Arora will be produced before the court as per legal procedure, and a detailed investigation has been initiated.
Links with Builders and Colonizers Under Scanner
Sources indicate that the arrested officer may have been in collusion with several colonizers and builders, particularly linked to projects in Kapurthala and areas near Jalandhar. It is alleged that multiple hotels and real estate projects were approved due to her influence and “favourable clearances.”
The Vigilance Bureau has now widened its probe to examine her financial records, past approvals, and connections with private developers.
Punjab Government’s Zero-Tolerance Stand on Corruption
This arrest sends a clear message that the Punjab government is serious about its zero-tolerance policy towards corruption. Urban planning departments, which play a crucial role in regulating colonies, housing projects, and land use, have often been under scrutiny for irregularities.
By acting swiftly against a senior official, the government aims to restore public confidence and ensure transparency in real estate and town planning approvals.
What Lies Ahead
With the investigation ongoing, more revelations are expected in the coming days. If the alleged builder nexus is confirmed, it could lead to multiple arrests and cancellation of illegally approved projects.
For now, this arrest stands as a warning to corrupt officials that misuse of power will not go unchecked.
