The bribery-accused ahlmad from Rouse Avenue Court has withdrawn his anticipatory bail plea in the Delhi High Court. Learn about the latest updates, legal developments, and actions by the Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB).

Bribery Accused Ahlmad Withdraws Anticipatory Bail Plea from Delhi High Court

On June 11, 2025, the ahlmad (record keeper) of the Rouse Avenue Court, accused of bribery by the Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB), withdrew his anticipatory bail plea in the Delhi High Court.

Mukesh Kumar Withdraws Plea Amid Bribery Allegations

The accused, identified as ahlmad Mukesh Kumar, faced charges under Section 7/13 of the Prevention of Corruption Act and relevant provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS). Following his booking, a Special Judge under the PC Act was transferred from Rouse Avenue Court to Rohini, North-West Delhi.

Hearing Scheduled But Bail Plea Withdrawn

The High Court was scheduled to hear arguments regarding Kumar’s anticipatory bail. However, the plea was withdrawn during the proceedings and allowed by Justice Tejas Karia.

Legal Counsel Urges Compliance with CrPC Guidelines

During the withdrawal request, Advocate Ayush Jain stressed that the ACB must adhere to the procedures of Section 41 of the Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC), particularly notifying the accused before arrest. He also requested that Kumar’s statement be recorded in the presence of a lawyer. In response, Additional Standing Counsel Sanjeev Bhandari assured the Court that the ACB would follow the law.

Permission Granted for Refiling Plea

While the Court dismissed the current plea as withdrawn, it allowed Kumar the liberty to file a fresh application in the future.

Bribery Charges and Pre-FIR Developments

The ACB initiated action against Kumar on May 16 based on allegations that he demanded bribes from defendants to secure bail. Prior to the filing of the FIR, the ACB had sent a letter to the Law Secretary of the Delhi government, seeking approval to investigate a judge. The evidence involving both the judge and the ahlmad was submitted to the High Court for administrative review.

Court’s Clarification on Judicial Investigation

The High Court clarified that there is no current requirement for official permission to investigate the named Judicial Officer. However, the ACB is free to proceed with inquiries based on the complaints received.

Ahlmad Claims Conspiracy, No Arrest Protection Yet

Kumar has alleged that the bribery accusations are part of a conspiracy orchestrated by certain ACB officers aiming to frame the judge who ruled against the agency. Currently, he has not been granted any protection from arrest.

Co-Accused Vishal Kumar Turns Approver

In a twist, co-accused Vishal Kumar—previously granted regular bail—has submitted a petition to the Joint Commissioner of Police, ACB, seeking to become an approver in the case. Though the ACB initially opposed his bail, it acknowledged that he provided complete disclosures. The trial court eventually determined no further custody was needed and granted bail.