GHMC town planning official caught taking ₹4 lakh bribe; ₹2.5 lakh unaccounted cash seized
A Town Planning Supervisor with the Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (GHMC) was arrested by the Telangana Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) on Monday, October 5, 2026, for allegedly accepting a ₹4 lakh bribe as part payment of a demanded ₹8 lakh to facilitate construction work. The arrest took place in Hyderabad’s Golconda Zone, Circle 33, Mehdipatnam, where the officer, identified as Tulasiram Sunitha, is posted.
Alleged demand to overlook orders and permit construction
According to the ACB, Sunitha allegedly demanded ₹8 lakh from a complainant to ignore “speaking orders” issued by the GHMC Deputy Commissioner, allow the complainant to proceed with a building construction project, refrain from causing further harassment, and to extend cooperation in the future. Acting on a complaint, ACB City Range-I officials organized a trap and apprehended the official while she was allegedly receiving ₹4 lakh as part payment of the bribe.
Cash recovery during trap
ACB officials said the tainted currency notes used for the trap were recovered from Sunitha’s possession. During the operation, the team also found ₹2.5 lakh in unaccounted cash with the accused. Both the alleged bribe amount and the unaccounted cash were seized as part of the proceedings.
Allegations of improper conduct
The ACB has alleged that the officer performed her official duties improperly and dishonestly to obtain undue advantage. The agency noted that the demand for illegal gratification was linked to allowing the continuation of construction activities in contravention of the Deputy Commissioner’s speaking orders.
Judicial remand and ongoing investigation
Following her arrest, Sunitha was produced before the First Additional Special Judge for SPE and ACB cases at Nampally, where she was sent to judicial remand. The case remains under active investigation, ACB officials said.
Complainant’s identity withheld
Authorities have withheld the complainant’s identity citing security reasons. Further details regarding the circumstances of the initial complaint and any additional recoveries or implicated persons were not immediately disclosed by the ACB.
Published: October 6, 2026, 11:55 a.m. IST
