A case of alleged bribery involving ₹100 has finally concluded after 39 years, leaving a Raipur man exonerated but with his life in ruins. Jageshwar Prasad Avadhia, now 83, faced devastating consequences after being falsely accused in 1986. The accusations cost him his career, family, and social standing. The High Court has cleared him, but the prolonged legal process has resulted in irreversible damage. He now seeks his pension and financial support from the government.
The incident unfolded in 1986 when Avadhia was a bill assistant at the Raipur office of the Madhya Pradesh State Road Transport Corporation (MPSRTC). Ashok Kumar Verma, an employee, pressured him to pass a bill. Avadhia refused, adhering to regulations. Verma attempted to bribe him with ₹20 the following day, but Avadhia declined.
On October 24, 1986, Verma secretly put ₹100 (two ₹50 notes) into Avadhia’s pocket. A vigilance team immediately arrested him. Avadhia has consistently maintained his innocence, asserting this was a setup. At the time of the arrest, his hands were tested with chemicals, and the marked notes were presented as evidence. Yet, he repeatedly denied the accusations.
The consequences for Avadhia were dire. He was suspended from 1988 to 1994 and subsequently transferred. His salary was reduced, and his promotions and increments were stopped. His family of four children endured significant financial hardships. He struggled to provide for his family with his ₹2,500 salary, and his children’s education suffered.
His wife succumbed to stress. His son, Neeraj Avadhia, who was 12 at the time, recounted the family’s ostracism. Neighbors kept their distance, and schoolmates avoided them. He faced expulsion from school due to unpaid fees. Neeraj completed his Master’s degree privately but couldn’t marry due to economic constraints. At 50, he now faces health issues and relies on government aid.
After retirement, Avadhia received no pension. He took up menial jobs to survive, which further tarnished his reputation.
In 2004, a trial court convicted Avadhia and sentenced him to prison along with a fine. He appealed to the High Court. The High Court, after careful consideration, determined that the prosecution had not provided sufficient proof of bribery, overturning the trial court’s decision. After 39 years, Avadhia was declared innocent.
Now residing in his ancestral home, Avadhia reflects on the belated justice, lamenting the cost to his family. He seeks his rightful compensation. His son, Neeraj, is relieved but acknowledges the loss of their youth. They appeal to the government for redress.
This case highlights the importance of swift justice and the damage caused by prolonged legal processes. Experts stress the necessity of providing compensation to victims. Avadhia’s story serves as a cautionary tale about the lasting impact of false accusations.