Indian Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has arrested an army officer in Kolkata over allegations of corruption and bribery linked to military procurement contracts, according to Indian media reports.
The officer, identified as Himanshu Bali, serves in the Army Ordnance Corps and is accused of accepting a bribe worth 5 million Indian rupees in connection with the awarding of tenders.
Read More: Rs 36.5 million bribery scandal rocks Mirpurkhas Board
Reports said the investigation was launched after allegations emerged that military procurement contracts were being awarded in exchange for heavy bribes. Authorities believe multiple officials may have been involved in the alleged corruption network.
A Colonel-rank officer posted with the Army Ordnance Corps under the Eastern Command in Kolkata has been arrested by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) in connection with an alleged Rs 50 lakh bribery case, officials said on Tuesday.
The officer, identified as Colonel… pic.twitter.com/LgNV55EgzE
— IndiaToday (@IndiaToday) May 20, 2026
According to Indian newspaper reports, the case involves irregularities in the tendering process related to procurement and supply operations within the Army Ordnance Corps, which is responsible for handling military equipment and logistics support for the Indian Army.
The Central Bureau of Investigation, India’s primary federal investigative agency for corruption and major criminal cases, reportedly carried out the arrest during an operation in Kolkata. Further investigations are underway to determine the extent of the alleged bribery scheme and identify any additional officials or contractors involved.
Indian authorities have not yet released detailed information regarding the nature of the contracts under investigation or whether any military suppliers are also being questioned.
The arrest has drawn attention due to the sensitivity of defence procurement processes and recurring concerns over transparency in military contracts in the region. Analysts note that corruption allegations involving defence tenders often trigger wider investigations because of the large financial stakes associated with procurement deals.
Read More: Court extends remand of six NCCIA officers in Ducky Bhai case
Officials have not confirmed whether formal charges have been filed against the officer, but reports indicate that investigations are continuing and more arrests could follow if evidence of broader involvement emerges.
The case has sparked debate in Indian media regarding accountability and oversight mechanisms in defence-related procurement and administrative procedures.