Quick Summary: Dr. Mangesh Prabhakar Rathod's request to drop bribery charges was turned down. The court found enough evidence to continue with the case.
Dr. Mangesh Rathod, a psychiatrist, was caught in a bribery sting by the Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) in Washim, Maharashtra. On July 29, 2015, he allegedly took a bribe of ₹200 for signing a mental health certificate. The complaint was made by Sadanand Tayade, whose brother needed the certificate.
Dr. Rathod's lawyer, Mr. S.V. Sirpurkar, argued that Rathod was not a government worker at the time of the incident. His contract with the District Civil Surgeon’s office ended on March 31, 2015. Therefore, he couldn’t be charged under the law meant for corrupt government workers.
"Since the crime happened after his contract ended, he cannot be held responsible," argued Mr. Sirpurkar.
The prosecution, represented by Mr. H.D. Marathe, argued that Rathod kept working after his contract ended, pointing to a certificate signed by him on July 22, 2015. This showed he was still acting as a government worker.
"The certificate shows he was still part of the Medical Board," stated Mr. Marathe.
Judge Rajnish R. Vyas looked over the evidence and decided that Rathod was doing public duties, making him a government worker. The judge pointed to the signed certificate as proof of Rathod’s continued service.
The court denied Rathod's request to drop the charges, saying that the matter should be settled during the trial with a full look at the evidence. The judge emphasized that not being paid does not change his status as a government worker.
The court has decided that there is enough evidence for the case to go to trial. Dr. Rathod will face the charges under the Prevention of Corruption Act, and the trial will look into the details of his role and responsibilities.
