.webp)
The Bribery Incident
The controversy began when the EOW unit caught SDM Soni’s stenographer, Saurav Yadav, red-handed while accepting a bribe of ₹30,000. Upon his arrest, the stenographer claimed that only ₹5,000 was his share, while the remaining ₹25,000 was intended for "Madam" (the SDM).
The EOW reportedly possesses an audio recording of a conversation between the complainant, builder Sanjay Rai, and the SDM. In the recording, when the complainant asked, "Madam, how can I serve you?", she did not give a direct answer, but regarding the clerk, she allegedly remarked, "Whatever your faith allows, you may do". Currently, an FIR has been registered against the stenographer, while investigations into Pooja Soni and a peon, Sunil Kumar, are ongoing.
Pooja Soni’s Defense Presenting her side through journalists, Soni has maintained her innocence. She argued that:
The bribe was taken by the clerk, not her.
The No Objection Certificate (NOC) for the project in question had already been issued on May 12, whereas the EOW action took place on May 14.
She questioned why a conspiracy would be hatched on May 14 if the work was already completed by May 12.
The "Chai-Pani" Controversy
What has drawn significant attention is Soni’s controversial stance on administrative ethics. She stated, "If someone offers 'Chai-Pani' (a colloquial term for small bribes or tips) out of happiness after their work is done, I do not interfere".
While she claims she does not pressure anyone for money, critics argue that this statement implies she does not oppose the culture of bribery. Sources point out that under Section 7 of the Prevention of Corruption Act 1988, accepting any form of "undue advantage" even under the guise of "Chai-Pani" is a serious criminal offense.
Public Sentiment and Unanswered Questions
Despite the allegations, Soni enjoys some public sympathy due to her humble background; her father is a farmer and her mother runs a small utensil shop. However, the EOW's version contradicts her claims of "voluntary happiness." According to the complainant, Sanjay Rai, the site inspection for his colony map was being intentionally delayed, and the bribe was explicitly demanded to approve the map.
The situation raises a critical question: if the builder’s work was finished and he was "happy," why would he travel from Narsinghpur to Jabalpur to lodge a formal complaint with the EOW?
