Licensed stamp vendors are public servants, says SC

• The Supreme Court ruled that licensed stamp vendors are public servants under the Prevention of Corruption Act.

• The ruling was based on an appeal by Aman Bhatia, a licensed stamp vendor.

• Bhatia was convicted for demanding extra for a ₹10 stamp paper 22 years ago.

• The Delhi High Court confirmed Bhatia’s culpability, stating that licensed vendors are indeed public servants.

• The Supreme Court set aside Bhatia’s conviction, stating the prosecution failed to prove the allegations of illegal gratification and bribery acceptance.