Prevention of Corruption Act, 1988 – Section 2(c)(xii), Sections 7, 13(1)(d), 13(2) – Penal Code, 1860 – Sections 120B, 417, 420, 471, 477A, 201 – Dakshin Bharat Hindi Prachar Sabha Act, 1964 – Public Servant Status – Financial Assistance – Criminal Conspiracy – Bribery – Forgery.
Revision petitioner, President of Dakshin Bharat Hindi Prachar Sabha (Kerala), challenged the order dated 10.03.2025 refusing discharge and framing charges in a case involving alleged bribery and forgery for teacher appointments. Prosecution alleged that accused, including petitioner, conspired to accept bribes for appointing non-meritorious candidates as teachers, falsified interview score sheets, and committed forgery. Court held that the Sabha, receiving financial assistance from the Central Government, qualifies as an institution under Section 2(c)(xii) of the P.C. Act, and the petitioner, as an office-bearer, is a public servant. Lack of direct bribe receipt by petitioner irrelevant due to conspiracy allegations under Section 120B IPC. Revision petition dismissed, finding prima facie case for charges under P.C. Act and IPC.
High Court of Kerala
CRL. REV. PET. NO. 4211 OF 2025, July 7, 2025
