Middleman Arrested for ₹4 Lakh Bribe Demand in Raja Ravi Varma Art Auction Case
Middleman booked in ₹4L bribe demand over Raja Ravi Varma prints
Hindustan Times
Image: Hindustan Times
A middleman named Vijay Kumar from Nashik has been charged by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) for demanding a ₹4 lakh bribe from an art firm to expedite the release of Raja Ravi Varma prints purchased at a recent auction in Mumbai. The case highlights ongoing corruption issues in public sector dealings.
- 01Vijay Kumar allegedly demanded a ₹4 lakh bribe from an art firm.
- 02The bribe was sought to facilitate the release of Raja Ravi Varma prints purchased at a DRT auction.
- 03The CBI registered the case based on a complaint filed on April 28.
- 04Kumar claimed he could influence officials at the DRT and Canara Bank.
- 05The art firm had successfully bid ₹18.2 lakh for the auctioned items.
Advertisement
In-Article Ad
The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has filed a case against Vijay Kumar, a suspected middleman from Nashik, for allegedly demanding a ₹4 lakh bribe to expedite the release of prints from the famous artist Raja Ravi Varma. The art firm, which participated in an auction conducted by the Debts Recovery Tribunal (DRT) on April 6, successfully bid ₹18.2 lakh for the prints and other items. After the auction, Kumar approached the firm’s proprietor's husband on April 20, claiming he could influence DRT officials and those at Canara Bank to clear the auction file. The firm, unwilling to pay the bribe, reported Kumar to the CBI, leading to an investigation that included recorded conversations confirming the bribe demand. The case underscores ongoing corruption challenges within public sector operations.
Advertisement
In-Article Ad
This case highlights the ongoing corruption in public sector auctions, affecting trust in the system and potentially impacting future art transactions.
Advertisement
In-Article Ad
Reader Poll
Do you believe corruption is a significant issue in public sector auctions?
Connecting to poll...
More about Central Bureau of Investigation
Court Allows CBI to Present Call Transcripts in Sheena Bora Murder Case
Hindustan Times • May 8, 2026
Bombay High Court Confirms Acquittal of 22 Accused in Sohrabuddin Shaikh Encounter Case
Hindustan Times • May 8, 2026
CBI Arrests CGST Superintendent and Computer Operator in Meerut Bribery Case
Hindustan Times • May 7, 2026
Read the original article
Visit the source for the complete story.