Ex-Pune Cop Vaishali Totewar Gets Bail In ₹30 Lakh Bribery Case

A special court in Pune has granted bail to former Assistant Police Inspector Vaishali Totewar, who was arrested by the Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) for allegedly demanding and accepting a ₹30 lakh bribe.

The bribe was allegedly demanded in connection with an inquiry while Totewar was posted with the Economic Offences Wing (EOW). According to the prosecution, Totewar had been assigned to investigate a complaint during her tenure with the EOW.

It is alleged that she demanded a bribe of ₹30 lakh from the complainant in exchange for submitting a favourable inquiry report, taking action against the opposing party, and helping the complainant regain possession of disputed land. The ACB alleged that Totewar initially accepted ₹2 lakh from the complainant.

She was subsequently promoted and transferred to another post. Following her transfer, Pune Police Commissioner Amitesh Kumar relieved her from duty. The very next day, she was allegedly caught accepting the remaining ₹28 lakh through a private intermediary, leading to her arrest.

Seeking bail, defence counsel Adv Pratap Pardeshi argued that the alleged bribe amount was not recovered directly from Totewar and that the investigation had been substantially completed. The defence contended that further custodial interrogation was unnecessary.

After hearing both sides, Special Judge DR Shetty granted bail to Totewar on a personal recognisance bond of ₹75,000. Adv Suhas Kolhe assisted the defence during the proceedings.

The case has sparked concerns about corruption within the police force. The Economic Offences Wing (EOW) is responsible for investigating economic crimes, and the alleged bribe has raised questions about the integrity of the investigation process.

Further legal proceedings in the case are underway. The outcome of the case will be closely watched, as it has implications for the fight against corruption in the police force.

The granting of bail to Totewar is a significant development in the case, and it remains to be seen how the case will proceed. The prosecution will likely continue to build its case against Totewar, and the defence will continue to argue that the evidence against her is not sufficient to prove her guilt.

In the meantime, the case serves as a reminder of the need for vigilance and accountability in the police force. Corruption can have serious consequences, and it is essential that those in positions of power are held to the highest standards of integrity.

The case is a significant one, and its outcome will have implications for the fight against corruption in India. It is a reminder that corruption is a serious issue that affects many aspects of society, and that it is essential to take strong action against those who engage in corrupt practices.