Pune API Booked For ₹5 Lakh Bribe Demand

A significant development has taken place in Pune, where an Assistant Police Inspector (API) has been booked for allegedly demanding a bribe. The API, identified as Tanaji Shivaji Kadam, is posted at Chakan North Police Station. According to the Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB), Kadam demanded ₹5 lakh from a real estate businessman to classify complaints against him as civil in nature and close the case.

The complainant, a 54-year-old businessman, and his son were facing two complaint applications related to their land purchase and sale business. The inquiry into these complaints had been assigned to API Kadam. The businessman alleged that Kadam initially demanded ₹10 lakh, claiming the money was meant for senior officers, but later reduced the demand to ₹5 lakh after negotiations.

The ACB conducted a verification exercise at Shreekrishna Veg Hotel in Nigdi on May 13, 2026, after the businessman approached them. During the verification, Kadam allegedly reiterated the demand of ₹10 lakh before agreeing to accept ₹5 lakh. He also asked for ₹2.5 lakh as the first instalment and the remaining ₹2.5 lakh after the complaint applications were disposed of.

Although a trap could not be laid due to technical reasons, the verification confirmed the demand for a bribe. Based on the findings, a case has been registered against Kadam at Nigdi Police Station under the relevant provisions of the Prevention of Corruption Act. The ACB is currently searching for the accused.

The action was carried out under the guidance of Superintendent of Police Shirish Sardeshpande, Additional Superintendent of Police Ajit Patil, and Arjun Bhosale. The verification was conducted by Police Inspector Shailaja Shinde, while Police Inspector Pravin Nimbalkar is investigating the case.

The incident highlights the issue of corruption in the police department and the need for stricter measures to prevent such cases. The ACB's swift action in this case is a positive step towards curbing corruption and ensuring that those in power are held accountable for their actions.

The real estate businessman's decision to approach the ACB and report the bribe demand is also commendable. It shows that citizens are becoming more aware of their rights and are willing to take action against corruption.

The case against API Kadam is a significant development in the fight against corruption in Pune. It serves as a reminder that corruption will not be tolerated and that those who engage in such activities will be held accountable.

In conclusion, the booking of API Kadam for demanding a bribe is a significant step towards curbing corruption in the police department. The incident highlights the need for stricter measures to prevent corruption and the importance of citizens reporting such cases. The ACB's action in this case is a positive step towards ensuring that those in power are held accountable for their actions.

The incident also raises questions about the effectiveness of the police department's internal mechanisms to prevent corruption. It is essential for the department to take steps to prevent such cases and ensure that officers are held accountable for their actions.

Overall, the case against API Kadam is a significant development in the fight against corruption in Pune. It serves as a reminder that corruption will not be tolerated and that those who engage in such activities will be held accountable. The incident highlights the need for stricter measures to prevent corruption and the importance of citizens reporting such cases.