The corruption investigation in Bihar’s government tender system has widened significantly after the suspension of two IAS officers, Abhilasha Kumari Sharma (2014 batch) and Yogesh Kumar Sagar (2017 batch), over allegations linked to contractor Rishu Shree. The action was initiated following inputs from an Enforcement Directorate (ED) report received by the Special Vigilance Unit (SVU), which is probing suspected bribery, commissions and undue benefits in public contracts.

The case gained momentum after the arrest of contractor Rishu Shree in an older investigation, with agencies now examining a wider network of officials across multiple departments. The SVU has indicated it will seek further assistance from the ED as part of the expanding probe.

IAS Officers and Multiple Departments Under Scanner

Officials under scrutiny include personnel from the Building Construction Department, Urban Development and Housing Department, BUDCO, BMSICL, and the Bihar State Bridge Construction Corporation. Investigators believe a large network of bureaucrats and engineers may be involved.

Abhilasha Kumari Sharma, who served as Additional CEO and MNREGA Commissioner of Jeevika, is accused of receiving benefits such as expensive gifts and home renovation work allegedly funded by the contractor. Yogesh Kumar Sagar, formerly associated with BUDCO, is accused of receiving financial benefits including a foreign trip for himself and family members reportedly costing over ₹21 lakh.

Allegations of Foreign Trips, Gifts and Luxury Benefits

According to the ED report, Sagar allegedly travelled to Europe with family members, with expenses including airfare and accommodation reportedly arranged by the contractor. Meanwhile, Sharma is accused of receiving high-value gifts, including electronic items, and having residential beautification work carried out at the contractor’s expense.

Both officers are currently under suspension as the investigation continues.

Wider Network of Officials Under Investigation

The probe also includes senior officials such as IAS officer Sanjeev Hans, Chief Engineer Tarini Das, Joint Secretary-level officer Mumukshu Choudhary, and BMSICL DGM Projects Pankaj Kumar. Several of them have faced raids, with authorities recovering cash, jewellery and other assets allegedly linked to disproportionate wealth.

Officials claim that commissions were allegedly taken in exchange for awarding contracts and clearing payments. Multiple FIRs have already been registered by the SVU, ED and CBI in related cases.

Investigation Expected to Expand Further

With multiple arrests, suspensions and ongoing raids, the Bihar tender corruption case is expected to widen further. Agencies are now examining financial trails, contractor links and property acquisitions to determine the full scale of the alleged corruption network.

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