Delhi High Court Acquits Constable in 1991 Bribery Case Over Procedural Lapses

The Delhi High Court set aside the conviction of a Naib court constable accused of accepting a ₹150 bribe in 1991, questioning the Anti-Corruption Branch (ACB) for conducting a raid inside a courtroom during active proceedings.

Justice Chandrasekharan Sudha observed that the ACB conducted the trap "under the nose of the Magistrate" without seeking prior permission from the presiding officer or District Judge.

The Court held that the prosecution failed to prove the essential "demand" for illegal gratification, noting inconsistent statements from the complainant.

Highlighting that suspicion cannot replace proof, the Court acquitted the accused of all charges.

[Ram Prashad v. State of NCT of Delhi]