ORDER :-

1. The applicants in both these bail applications seek regular bail in connection with crime no.403 of 2023 registered with police station Bhagyanagar, Nanded, District Nanded for the offences punishable u/s 7and 12 of the Prevention of Corruption Act, 1988 (for short PC Act).

2. The investigation was set in motion on the basis of information given by Mr. Dadarao Dhage, who alleges that he is a contractor and running a firm namely Omkar construction. He had filled a Tender for construction of roads in Taluka Hadgaon, District Nanded. He was found to be the successful bidder. However, Tenders were laying at the stage of recommendation in the office of Superintending Engineer PWD, Nanded. Accordingly, on 30.10.2023 informant contacted with the applicant Superintending Engineer, who demanded half percent of tender amount for making favorable recommendation to the office of the Chief Engineer. The another applicant/accused working as Senior Clerk in the Tender Department demanded bribe of Rs.50,000/- for the section. Since, first informant was not willing to satisfy the demand of bribe, he approached Anti Corruption Department, at Nanded. Accordingly, trap was arranged. Demand