PSI Pramod Chintamani Dismissed After Bribe Trap & ₹93-Lakh Fraud

PSI Pramod Chintamani Dismissed After Bribe Trap and ₹93-Lakh Fraud Allegations

Pune: Police Sub-Inspector Pramod Chintamani of the Pimpri-Chinchwad Economic Offences Wing has been dismissed from service following a high-profile bribery trap and revelations of a separate ₹93-lakh fraud. Senior officials approved his dismissal under Article 311(2)(b) of the Constitution, citing severe threats to departmental integrity.

The action comes weeks after Chintamani was caught by the Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) accepting a ₹46.5-lakh bribe — the first instalment of an alleged ₹2-crore demand to influence an investigation and secure bail for an accused.

₹2-Crore Demand, Bribe Recovery and House Search

According to ACB investigators, Chintamani initially demanded ₹2 lakh but raised it dramatically after assessing the complainant’s financial strength. He allegedly claimed ₹1 crore was for himself and another ₹1 crore for a senior officer.

After his arrest on November 2, ACB searched his Bhosari residence, recovering ₹51 lakh in cash, property papers and valuables. He was sent to 13 days of police custody before being remanded to judicial custody.

His involvement in bribery while serving in an economic crimes unit triggered internal concerns about the adequacy of oversight within sensitive police departments.

Separate ₹93-Lakh Fraud Complaint Filed in Bhosari

While the bribery probe was underway, a second complaint was lodged on November 12 by Santosh Barkrishna Tarate of Rahatani.
Tarate alleged that Chintamani and his associates took ₹18 lakh from him under the pretext of doubling his investment within 20 months. He received only ₹15.4 lakh back.

Further investigation revealed that multiple individuals had deposited amounts ranging from ₹5 lakh to ₹40 lakh, bringing the total alleged fraud to ₹93 lakh.

Co-accused named in the FIR include auto-rickshaw driver Goraksh Med of Sangvi and real estate agent Sandeep Ahir of Bhosari. Police suspect more victims may surface as the probe widens.

A History of Misconduct and Prior Complaints

Department sources disclosed that Chintamani had previously faced allegations, including a complaint by a woman at Wakad Police Station accusing him of seeking sexual favours in exchange for official assistance.
Though withdrawn under alleged pressure, the case resurfaced in discussions about long-standing lapses in internal accountability.

Despite multiple red flags, Chintamani continued to receive important postings, raising questions about departmental vigilance and disciplinary processes.

Dismissal Under Article 311(2)(b): No Inquiry Needed

After his suspension on November 3, the Commissionerate reviewed the case and opted to dismiss him under Article 311(2)(b), which permits removal without a formal inquiry if such proceedings are deemed impractical or if they threaten institutional credibility.

Deputy Commissioner of Police (Crime) Dr. Shivaji Pawar confirmed the dismissal, adding that further legal action is underway.

Integrity Concerns and Wider Implications

Officials say the case represents a significant breach of public trust, especially given Chintamani’s role in an economic offences unit. The decision to invoke Article 311(2)(b) signals a strong stance against corruption amid rising concerns about internal misconduct.

The ACB and local police continue parallel investigations, with officials stating that the total fraud amount may rise as more complainants come forward.

Cases involving financial misconduct underscore how critical transparent systems, accurate records and responsible money handling are - not only for public institutions but for private businesses as well.

Many organisations rely on professional bookkeeping services in India to maintain financial clarity, prevent irregularities and strengthen internal controls. Shunyatax Global supports enterprises in building secure, compliant and trustworthy financial frameworks.