- I Paid A Bribe
- 10 years ago
- 9901 views
On entry to Mudumala reserve forest from Bandipur, on 15-Apr-2014…
- Forest
- Govt Officers Interference
- Paid INR 2,000
On entry to Mudumala reserve forest from Bandipur, on 15-Apr-2014 (around 10.30 AM) by car, I was stopped by T.N forest entry police to search of liquors. They found a bottle of Liquor from the car. Then they showed me a board saying 'No Liquor from Other States Allowed' and hence asked me to pay fine of Rs 2000/-. They filled details in a form and I was asked to sign. When I asked for copy of the same or receipt they said, the paper will go to the court and I will get the receipt of the fine payment from the court. So, I had to leave without the receipt of the Rs 2000/- payment. I could not make a big noise there, as I was travelling with my family and does not want any other issues with them in lonely forest.
I feel this incident as a real cheating. If this was the correct fine, they could have given me a receipt of the money I paid. I have no clue on whether this is the fine or what the maximum penalty of such an offence is. I am sure that, they will tear of that paper and keep that money in their pocket.
In fact, on this day, I have seen other vehicles were also been stopped for the same offense. So, the officials hence could have made good money on that day.
Can this be inquired by any agencies? It is good to have these rules & penalties written on the public board so that traveler can understand it or have these check/entry posts monitored/video-graphed online so that these practices will end.
On another point, why such a rule exists? Indian citizen has different rules depending on 'where the items are purchased'. How come one understands all of these considering the fact that, India has 29 states? These officials are taking advantage of the ignorance of the visitors who passes this route and take money in the context of fine without giving any receipts or copy of the offence.
Can this be brought to public attention so that, if there is a malpractice, then it will be stopped and corrupt officials are punished? Besides, the visitors will be aware of these rules so that they will not carry such items while travelling. If money payment happens, can there be a rule in the country that, payment only after getting receipt?
Any help/control in his by any authorities who read this is appreciated.