Bureaucrat Couple Under Scanner, Vigilance Finds ₹80 Lakh Cash and 48 Watches in Search

The Bihar Vigilance Investigation Bureau has searched four premises linked to a bureaucrat couple in Patna and Begusarai, recovering nearly ₹80 lakh in cash, jewellery valued at ₹52.60 lakh, and 48 watches worth ₹6.01 lakh, according to the agency. The search were conducted on Monday as part of an investigation into alleged disproportionate asset involving Patna Additional District Magistrate (Supply) Ravindra Kumar Diwakar and his wife Kumari Sweety, a sub registrar posted in Danapur. Vigilance Alleges ₹1.07 Crore in Disproportionate Assets The Vigilance Investigation Bureau has registered a case against the couple, alleging that they possess disproportionate assets worth ₹1.07 crore. According to the agency, the alleged disproportionate asset represent approximately 47% of the couple total known income. The investigation is focused on determining the source of the asset and whether they can be accounted for through the couple's known sources of income. The case was registered on September 25 under relevant provisions of the Prevention of Corruption Act and Section 61(2) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS). Cash, Jewellery and Watches Recovered During the search, investigators reported recovering almost ₹80 lakh in cash from the premises linked to the couple. The agency also reported jewellery valued at ₹52.60 lakh, along with 48 watches whose combined value was estimated at ₹6.01 lakh. The recovered items are being examined as part of the investigation into the alleged disproportionate asset. Investigators are expected to assess the ownership, source and documentation associated with the asset. Investigation Underway The Vigilance action comes as authorities investigate whether the couple asset are disproportionate to their known income. The registration of the case allows the agency to examine financial records, property holding and other assets connected with the allegations. However, the allegations remain part of an ongoing investigation. The recovery of cash, jewellery or other valuable during a search does not by itself establish criminal liability, and any final determination will depend on the evidence gathered during the investigation and subsequent legal proceeding. The case is expected to remain under scrutiny as the Vigilance Investigation Bureau continue its investigation in to the alleged disproportionate assets.