New Delhi (FNO): In a significant verdict aimed at tightening the noose around corruption in public service, a special court on Monday sentenced a former IAS officer to five years’ rigorous imprisonment in a high-profile money-laundering case linked to alleged misuse of official position and diversion of public funds.

The court, presided over by the Special Judge (PMLA), held that the officer had “knowingly engaged in processes connected with proceeds of crime” and had “betrayed public trust for personal enrichment.” The Enforcement Directorate (ED), which spearheaded the investigation, alleged that the accused had laundered several crores through shell entities and benami accounts during his tenure in a key administrative post.

The judge also imposed a hefty fine, citing the need for deterrence in cases involving high-ranking officials. The court observed that the quantum of sentence reflected both the gravity of the offence and the prolonged delay caused by the accused during the trial.

The defence is expected to challenge the conviction in the High Court, arguing that the evidence relied upon was circumstantial and that the financial transactions were “routine administrative disbursements.”

Meanwhile, anti-corruption activists have hailed the judgment as a “milestone” in holding public servants accountable, while officials within the bureaucracy noted that the case underscores the importance of transparency and internal oversight mechanisms.

The convict has been taken into custody to begin serving his sentence, even as the ED moves ahead with proceedings to confiscate properties allegedly linked to the laundered funds