Patil, who was away on a tour for the last four days, summoned senior officials from the city police team on Monday. The home minister asked police chief Satya Pal Singh to investigate the role played by senior police officials and take action against them if found guilty. Sources said the minister also sought a detailed report on the entire episode.

Speaking with this newspaper, Patil confirmed his meeting with the Dr Singh. “I have asked for stringent actions against the policemen who were involved. Senior officials from the force could have played a role in the bribe incident. We will not spare anybody if any senior officer was found to be as involved in it,” Patil said.