The Telangana Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) has filed a case against Mahbubnagar district Deputy Transport Commissioner Mood Kishan for allegedly possessing assets disproportionate to his known sources of income. The ACB alleges that the officer has amassed assets far in excess of his known sources of income, a violation of the Prevention of Corruption Act.
According to the investigating agency, the documented value of the properties seized during the raids is estimated at approximately ₹12.72 crore (US$1.2 million), but the market value could be much higher. Officials say that considering land and business investments, the actual market value of these properties could exceed ₹100 crore (US$1.2 million). According to one official, the value of just 31 acres of agricultural land alone is estimated to be approximately ₹62 crore (US$6.2 million).
This case is also shocking because the accused officer’s position and salary are limited. An officer holding the rank of Deputy Transport Commissioner earns a monthly salary of approximately ₹1 to ₹1.25 lakh. Despite this, the ACB raids have uncovered extensive luxury and business investments. Kishan’s residence and 11 locations linked to his associates were searched.
Investigations have revealed that Kishan owns a 50 percent stake in the Lahari International Hotel. He also owns a premium furniture showroom in Nizamabad, spanning approximately 3,000 square yards. His land holdings include 31 acres of agricultural land in the Sangareddy district and 10 acres of commercial land in the Nizamabad Municipal Corporation area.
The ACB also recovered a large amount of cash and valuables. A bank balance of ₹1.37 crore was frozen during the investigation. Furthermore, more than a kilogram of gold jewellery and expensive vehicles, including an Innova Crysta and a Honda City, were seized.
Regarding residential properties, Kishan is reported to own two flats in Nizamabad’s Ashoka Township. He also owns a special polyhouse facility in Sangareddy.
The ACB says the case is of serious concern not just because of the value of the properties, but because of the manner in which Kishan’s extensive network of hotels, showrooms, and land was built while in government service. The agency alleges this was accomplished through corruption and illegal means. A case has been registered against Kishan under sections 13(1)(b) and 13(2) of the Prevention of Corruption Act, which deal with illegal acquisition of property and criminal misconduct.
Through this action, the ACB has also appealed to the public to report any government employee who demands a bribe. The Bureau has assured that the identity of the complainant will be kept completely confidential. Toll-free number 1064 and WhatsApp number 9440446106 have been issued for this purpose.