India's Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has arrested two officials on allegations of bribery related to drone import approvals. The individuals include Mudavath Devula, a deputy director general at the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), and Bharat Mathur, a senior vice president from Reliance Industries. The investigation was initiated following a tip-off that suggested a conspiring effort involving a bribe of 1.5 million rupees (around $16,000) to expedite three approvals for drone applications by Asteria Aerospace, a subsidiary of Reliance’s Jio Platforms.
Asteria Aerospace is a drone technology company offering aerial intelligence services, with over 400 drones operational. Reliance Industries has publicly denied any involvement in unauthorized transactions, asserting that Mathur was engaged as a consultant. Currently, both accused are in police custody, and significant cash and valuables have been seized during the arrests.
This case highlights ongoing concerns about corruption within India's aviation sector, which faces staffing shortages and regulatory challenges. Reliance Industries, controlled by billionaire Mukesh Ambani, continues to grow, with plans for a significant IPO for Jio Platforms. The case underscores the ongoing efforts to combat bribery and uphold regulatory integrity in the country's expanding drone and technology industries.
