By Neeraj Kumar
Patna: In a major crackdown on corruption in Bihar, serious allegations have surfaced against Kishanganj-based Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) Gautam Kumar. An investigation by the Economic Offences Unit (EOU) has revealed that he allegedly amassed benami assets worth nearly ₹80 crore over his 32-year career. Following raids, he has been removed from his post with immediate effect, and preparations are underway to initiate a money laundering case against him.
On March 31, the EOU conducted simultaneous raids at eight locations linked to the officer. These included three premises in Purnea, two in Kishanganj, and one each in Patna, Araria, and Siliguri. During the operation, officials recovered a substantial cache of property-related documents, including papers for around 36 land papers. Documents relating to investments in Noida and Gurugram were also seized.
Investigators further revealed that Kumar owns a lavish four-storey bungalow spread over approximately 3,600 square feet in Purnea, estimated to be worth ₹2.5 crore. More than ₹1 crore was reportedly spent on its interiors and furnishings alone. The raids also led to the recovery of jewellery worth ₹60 lakh, expensive watches, and luxury vehicles, including a Creta and a Thar.
Kumar’s wife, a government school teacher, has also drawn attention due to her lifestyle. Reports suggest she uses a Thar vehicle worth around ₹35 lakh, bearing a police insignia, for commuting to school.
The EOU has registered a case of disproportionate assets against Kumar, and the Enforcement Directorate (ED) is set to take over further investigation into the matter. Police headquarters has directed his immediate transfer to headquarters, while SDPO-2 Manglesh Kumar Singh has been given additional charge of Kishanganj. Sources indicate that Kumar may soon face suspension.
During the probe, a link to a woman associate also emerged. It is alleged that several land properties were purchased in her name. Authorities recovered documents related to seven plots and jewellery worth nearly ₹60 lakh from her residence, along with evidence of financial transactions in bank accounts.
Additionally, investigators have uncovered indications of a joint purchase of a tea garden in Siliguri with a sitting MLA. Investments in flats in Noida and Gurugram are also under scrutiny, suggesting the case may involve a wider network beyond a single individual.
Gautam Kumar is a 1994-batch officer who has served for a long period in Seemanchal districts such as Kishanganj, Purnea, Araria and Katihar. He had cultivated an image of being a strict police officer, but the serious allegations now levelled against him have brought the entire system under scrutiny.
About the Author
