The Allahabad High Court has upheld the conviction of a former Lekhpal in a 1977 bribery case, sentencing him to one year in jail.

The Allahabad High Court has upheld the conviction of a former Lekhpal in a 1977 bribery case, sentencing him to one year in jail. The case dates back to 1977 when the Lekhpal, Mahesh Chand, allegedly demanded and accepted a bribe of Rs 300 from a man to influence pending consolidation proceedings. The trial court had convicted Mahesh Chand in 1985 and sentenced him to one year in jail. The Allahabad High Court's judgment was delivered by Justice Sanjiv Kumar, who said that all the witnesses have supported and proved the prosecution's case against Mahesh Chand. He also stated that there is no evidence to suggest that the witnesses had any enmity with Mahesh Chand or that they had any reason to falsely implicate him. The court dismissed Mahesh Chand's appeal and upheld his conviction, directing him to surrender before the trial court within four weeks. If he fails to do so, coercive measures will be taken against him. The Allahabad High Court's decision is a significant step towards tackling corruption and sends a strong message that those who engage in corrupt practices will be held accountable. This decision will set a precedent for future cases and will help to ensure that those who engage in corrupt practices are brought to justice. The court's decision is a testament to the fact that the judiciary is committed to upholding the rule of law and ensuring that justice is served.