DGCA Deputy Director Arrested by CBI in Rs 2.5 Lakh Bribery Case
Private aviation company director also taken into custody
The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has arrested a Deputy Director of the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) in Tamil Nadu in an alleged bribery case involving the airworthiness certification of aircraft operated by a private aviation company.
The arrested official has been identified as Sushil Kumar Garg, Deputy Director (Airworthiness), DGCA, Chennai. The CBI has also arrested Sachin Keshav Bhane, Director of Ekvi Air Training Organisation Pvt Ltd, in connection with the case.
According to officials, Garg allegedly demanded and accepted a bribe of Rs 2.5 lakh in exchange for extending undue favour in matters related to the airworthiness certification of aircraft operated by the private company.
CBI Registers FIR After Bribery Inputs
The CBI received information regarding the alleged demand for illegal gratification, following which it registered an FIR and launched an investigation.
The agency subsequently conducted an operation in Tamil Nadu, during which the alleged bribe amount was accepted. Garg and Bhane were subsequently arrested.
The case has been registered against the DGCA officer, Bhane, Ekvi Air Training Organisation Pvt Ltd and other unidentified persons.
Officer to Be Brought to Delhi for Questioning
The CBI is expected to approach the court seeking transit remand of Garg to bring him to the national capital for further questioning.
The agency is also examining the role of other persons who may have been involved in the alleged transaction.
The investigation will seek to establish whether the alleged bribe was an isolated transaction or whether there was a broader arrangement involving regulatory clearances and aviation-related approvals.
Airworthiness Certification Under Scanner
Airworthiness certification is a critical regulatory process designed to ensure that aircraft comply with prescribed safety and operational requirements before they are permitted to operate.
The alleged involvement of a senior DGCA official in a bribery case connected with such certification has therefore raised serious questions about regulatory integrity.
The CBI investigation is continuing, and further details are expected to emerge as the accused persons are questioned and the agency examines the records and circumstances surrounding the alleged transaction.
The allegations against the accused are subject to the outcome of the investigation and judicial proceedings.
