In a major anti-corruption crackdown, the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has seized ₹2.62 crore in cash, along with luxury cars, high-end watches, imported liquor, and documents linked to multiple properties from the residence and office of Maisnam Riten Kumar Singh, Executive Director and Regional Officer of the National Highways and Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited (NHIDCL) in Guwahati. The operation was conducted following Singh’s arrest on October 14, 2025, for allegedly accepting a ₹10 lakh bribe from a private contractor.
The raids were carried out across Guwahati, Ghaziabad, and Imphal, revealing an extensive trail of disproportionate assets and suspected benami holdings. Singh was caught red-handed while accepting the bribe, triggering a wider investigation into NHIDCL’s regional operations and procurement practices.
🧠 Key Highlights from CBI’s Anti-Corruption Operation
| Element | Details |
|---|---|
| Arrested Official | Maisnam Riten Kumar Singh, NHIDCL Executive Director |
| Arrest Date | October 14, 2025 |
| Bribe Amount | ₹10 lakh |
| Cash Seized | ₹2.62 crore |
| Assets Recovered | Luxury cars, watches, imported liquor |
| Locations Raided | Guwahati, Ghaziabad, Imphal |
| Investigation Agency | Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) |
The CBI has also recovered documents related to nine properties and 20 apartments, indicating a complex web of real estate investments.
📊 Timeline of Events in NHIDCL Bribery Case
| Date | Event Description |
|---|---|
| October 14 | Singh arrested while accepting ₹10 lakh bribe |
| October 15–16 | CBI conducts multi-city raids |
| October 17 | ₹2.62 crore cash and luxury assets seized |
| October 18 | Case expanded to include property and tax records |
The investigation is expected to widen, with possible scrutiny of NHIDCL’s procurement contracts and vendor relationships.
🗣️ Reactions from Government, Legal Experts, and Civil Society
- CBI Spokesperson: “The operation reflects our commitment to clean governance.”
- Legal Analysts: “Asset recovery of this scale indicates systemic corruption.”
- Public Sentiment: “Accountability must extend to all levels of infrastructure agencies.”
| Stakeholder Group | Reaction Summary |
|---|---|
| Government Officials | Supporting full legal action |
| Anti-Corruption Bodies | Calling for audit of NHIDCL contracts |
| Citizens | Demanding transparency and swift justice |
| Media | Tracking asset trail and political links |
The case has sparked calls for mandatory asset declarations and real-time audit mechanisms for senior officials in infrastructure bodies.
🧾 Asset Recovery Snapshot from NHIDCL Official’s Premises
| Asset Type | Quantity/Value | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Cash | ₹2.62 crore | Found in multiple safes and lockers |
| Luxury Cars | 3 vehicles | Brands include BMW, Audi |
| Watches | 12 high-end timepieces | Rolex, Omega, Tag Heuer |
| Liquor Collection | 40+ imported bottles | Premium brands from Europe |
| Property Documents | 9 properties, 20 apartments | Spread across Assam, Delhi, Manipur |
The CBI is now coordinating with Income Tax and Enforcement Directorate to trace the money trail and verify ownership records.
🧭 What to Watch in NHIDCL Corruption Probe
- Forensic Audit: NHIDCL’s procurement and tendering process under review
- Asset Freezing: ED may initiate proceedings under PMLA
- Political Fallout: Possible links to contractors and regional power brokers
- Policy Reform: Push for digital transparency in infrastructure spending
Singh has been remanded to CBI custody for 7 days, and further arrests are expected as the investigation progresses.
Disclaimer
This news content is based on verified law enforcement briefings, media reports, and official statements as of October 18, 2025. It is intended for editorial use and public awareness. The information does not constitute legal advice, political commentary, or investigative conclusion and adheres to ethical journalism standards.
