ACB steps up action against corruption, targets senior officials

Director General of the Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) Atul Singh on Friday released the annual crime report, highlighting stronger action against corruption across departments.

Addressing the media, Mr. Singh said all FIRs were registered after approvals under Section 17A of the Prevention of Corruption Act. During the year, 115 people were booked.

Mr. Singh said the ACB has focused on senior officials involved in graft and will expand inspections and vigilance operations. He added that Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu has directed strict action against corrupt officials and illegal asset accumulation.

The report shows 19 trap cases in the land revenue department and nine disproportionate assets cases in other departments. In one major case, official Sabbavarapu Srinivasa Rao was allegedly caught accepting a bribe of Rs 25 lakh.

Trials were completed in 36 cases, with a conviction rate of 46%. Mr. Singh credited the legal wing and range officers for these results.

As part of preventive steps, the ACB conducted surprise inspections at 12 registrar offices. He stressed that public support is key in fighting corruption and urged citizens to share information and file complaints.

The ACB has operational toll-free numbers and also receives complaints through the Public Grievance Redressal System.

Looking ahead, Mr. Singh said the Bureau plans to use advanced technology in 2026. This includes AI-based tools to identify benami properties and proposals for a whistleblower mechanism under the PIDP framework. He added that steps are being explored to ensure faster trials in ACB courts.