Agartala: In a major blow to administrative integrity, Dhiman Chakma, a 2021-batch IAS officer currently posted as the Sub-Collector of Dharamgarh in Odisha’s Kalahandi district, was arrested on Sunday by the Vigilance Department for accepting a bribe of Rs 10 lakh. The officer was caught red-handed at his official residence during a sting operation prompted by a complaint from a local businessman.
According to official sources, the bribe was part of a Rs 20 lakh demand allegedly made by Chakma in return for not initiating punitive action against the complainant’s enterprise. Chakma is said to have called the businessman to his government quarters, where he received 26 bundles of currency notes, all in 100-rupee denominations. A chemical test confirmed the presence of the bribe money on Chakma’s hands and in the drawer where the cash was placed.
The arrest was swiftly followed by a detailed search of Chakma’s residence, which led to the recovery of an additional Rs 47 lakh in unaccounted cash. This discovery has significantly intensified the seriousness of the charges, indicating potential deeper layers of corruption. The operation, carried out by the Vigilance Cell, has been registered under PS Case No. 6/2025 and invokes Section 7 of the Prevention of Corruption Act, 1988 (amended in 2018), which pertains to public servants accepting illegal gratification.
Originally from Agartala, Dhiman Chakma has reportedly been under informal observation since his appointment to Dharamgarh, though this is the first formal case lodged against him. His arrest has triggered shockwaves across Odisha’s bureaucratic and political circles, raising concerns about accountability and transparency in public offices.
The Vigilance Department has reaffirmed its commitment to combating corruption at all levels and stated that further investigations are underway. Officials indicated that additional leads are being pursued, and more revelations could emerge in the coming days.
This high-profile arrest underscores the growing vigilance against corruption in government service and serves as a stern warning to public officials misusing their authority for personal gain.
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