Srinagar, July 1, 2025: The Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) Srinagar has registered an FIR against sitting District Development Council (DDC) Member Mohammad Shaban Chopan and his associate Ghulam Mohammad Khathana for allegedly demanding a ₹5 lakh bribe to facilitate No Objection Certificates (NOCs) for a private school.
The case, filed under FIR No. 12/2025 at ACB Police Station Srinagar, invokes Section 7 of the Prevention of Corruption Act, 1988 (amended 2018) and Section 61(2) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS).
According to the ACB statement, the complaint alleged that the DDC member and his tout demanded ₹5 lakh from the owner of Scholars Boarding School, located in Dara, Harwan, for arranging official NOCs. To pressure the complainant, an official inspection of the school was orchestrated, followed by a demand for an initial ₹50,000 and a blank cheque.
Upon discreet verification, ACB confirmed the authenticity of the allegations, stating the demand was clearly established through the public representative’s aide.
The bureau has launched a full investigation into the matter and reaffirmed its commitment to eradicating corruption. Citizens are encouraged to report bribery or misconduct through the ACB helpline or by visiting the nearest ACB office.
