Bhavnagar: A controversy has erupted in Bhavnagar after an audio clip allegedly featuring the driver of the Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM) surfaced, in which he is purportedly heard demanding ₹15 lakh for approving the sale of a property covered under the Disturbed Areas Act. The audio clip, in which money is allegedly sought in the name of the SDM, has created a stir in administrative circles.

The matter pertains to the proposed sale of a commercial property near Crescent Circle in Bhavnagar city. The property, measuring around 1,250.80 sq m and comprising eight commercial shops in Plot No. 21/B, belongs to Atulkumar Mahendrakumar Kamdar and was proposed to be sold to Salimbhai Ibrahimbhai Ganiyani, a resident of Shishu Vihar. Since the area falls under the Disturbed Areas Act, approval from the City Mamlatdar, police authorities, and finally the Sub-Divisional Magistrate is mandatory for such transactions.

The proposal has reportedly been pending since 2023. During the administrative process, negative opinions were recorded by authorities, after which the applicant reapplied and the file was again forwarded for approval. Following repeated objections, the alleged demand for money to clear the file came to light.

An audio clip, said to be of SDM Pratibha Dahiya’s contractual driver Momin Pathan, has gone viral, in which he is allegedly heard discussing a bribe amount and claiming that the “saheb” had asked for ₹15 lakh, while the matter could be settled for ₹14 lakh. The clip also suggests that approval would be granted within two to three days once the payment was made.

The incident has raised serious questions about how a contractual driver could negotiate such a large amount for file clearance and whether others were involved. Police have begun an inquiry to determine who demanded the money, who paid it, and whether similar payments were taken in other cases related to approvals under the Disturbed Areas Act.

Meanwhile, Bhavnagar SDM Pratibha Dahiya said, “We came to know about the matter through the media yesterday. I received calls after reports surfaced, and in the evening a video was shared with me on social media, through which I learnt that the person seen is my driver. I have two drivers; one drives this vehicle and the other drives another car. The driver seen in the video is Mominbhai, who appears to be demanding money from a third party regarding some file.

We were not aware of this file earlier. After the matter came to light, we started verifying the facts. At present, we do not know whether the money was being demanded for a single file or for more than one case. The matter is under inquiry. He has taken my name in the audio, but I have no involvement. He is not a regular staff member and is appointed through outsourcing. His duty is only to drive the vehicle, and I have never had any personal dealings with him.

I have written to the SP requesting further action. I have relieved him from duty with immediate effect. Further investigation, including verification of the audio and video, is a matter for the police, as such powers do not rest with the magistrate. Therefore, I have lodged a complaint with the SP.”

Police said the investigation is underway. DeshGujarat