MP: In-charge civil surgeon held for taking Rs 20,000 bribe

The in-charge civil surgeon of Umaria district hospital was nabbed Wednesday for allegedly accepting a bribe of Rs 20,000 from a Health department staffer for extending an official favour, the Lokayukta Police said.

Dr Ved Prakash Patel had sought money from the complainant, a storekeeper with the Health department, who wanted to withdraw his resignation, said Lokayukta DSP B K Patel.

The complainant had resigned on September 27, following a dispute with his seniors, but later changed his mind, he said.

According to the complainant, Patel had demanded Rs 40,000, but eventually settled for Rs 20,000, the officer said.

A case has been registered under the Prevention of Corruption Act against Patel.