In Raipur, Chhattisgarh, a life was shattered by a false accusation. Jageshwar Prasad Avadhia, now 83, faced the consequences of a ₹100 bribe allegation in 1986, losing his job, family, and social standing. After enduring nearly four decades of legal battles, the High Court has finally acquitted him. However, the lengthy legal process has left him with unrecoverable losses. He is now seeking his rightful pension and financial assistance from the government.
The case originated in 1986 when Avadhia was working as a bill assistant at the MPSRTC office in Raipur. An employee named Ashok Kumar Verma pressured him to clear a bill. Avadhia declined, citing regulations. The next day, Verma offered a bribe of ₹20, which Avadhia refused.
On October 24, 1986, Verma surreptitiously placed ₹100 (two ₹50 notes) in Avadhia’s pocket. A vigilance team then apprehended him. Avadhia has always maintained that this was a deliberate act to frame him. At the time of the arrest, his hands were tested with chemicals, and the notes were presented as evidence. Despite this, he continued to plead his innocence.
The accusation had a devastating impact on Avadhia’s life. He was suspended from 1988 to 1994 and later transferred, resulting in a halved salary and a halt to promotions and increments. His family, comprising four children, faced severe financial hardship. He struggled to support his family on a monthly salary of ₹2,500, leading to his children’s education being compromised.
His wife endured significant stress, eventually succumbing to it. His son, Neeraj, who was a child at the time, recalled the family’s ostracization by society. Neighbors distanced themselves, and his schoolmates avoided him. He was repeatedly removed from school because of unpaid fees. Neeraj pursued a Master’s degree privately but remained unmarried due to financial constraints. Now, at 50, he is dealing with health issues and relies on government aid.
Following retirement, Avadhia received no pension. He was forced to take up low-paying jobs like watchman to survive, which further damaged his reputation.
In 2004, a trial court found Avadhia guilty, imposing a prison sentence and a fine. He appealed to the High Court. The High Court, after reviewing the evidence, concluded that the prosecution had failed to provide sufficient proof of bribery, overturning the trial court’s decision. After 39 years, Avadhia was declared innocent.
Avadhia, now living in his ancestral home, reflects on the long legal ordeal. He emphasizes that the justice came too late, having ruined his family’s life. He hopes to receive his rightful dues. His son Neeraj feels relieved that his father’s name is cleared, but acknowledges the irreversible damage to their lives. They appeal for government compensation.
This case brings to light the dire consequences of protracted legal processes. Experts advocate for providing compensation and ensuring speedy justice for victims. Avadhia’s story serves as a stark reminder of the devastating impact a false accusation can have on a person’s life.
