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The sequence of events leading to Raj’s arrest began when a 72-year-old woman, suffering from illness, sought assistance through a relative to get Tatkal Podi. Utilizing an online application process facilitated by the Pahani Division of the Mangalore District Collector’s office, she paid a fee of Rs 1500 electronically and received a corresponding receipt.
On February 29, surveyor Sheetal Raj conducted a survey of her land. Subsequently, he demanded an additional Rs 5,000 in exchange for providing a map of the surveyed area. Disturbed by this demand for a bribe, a complaint was lodged with the Lokayukta police.
The subsequent investigation revealed a systematic pattern of corruption, with Raj persisting in his demand for a bribe, which was eventually negotiated down to Rs 4,000. It was at this point that the Lokayukta police intervened, apprehending Raj in the act of accepting the illicit payment.