Question:-
The government has afforded a tender to us, but it was attained through bribery. We have received the payment in full, with 7% given to the “middle man” who attained the tender for us. What is the ruling with regards to the 7% given to the “middle man”, and what is the ruling with regards to the money we received? Will we be held accountable for this on the day of Qiyaamah?
Answer:-
It was Haraam to pay a bribe and thereby secure the government contract. Both the person that pays the bribe, and the one that receives the bribe, are equally guilty of sin. The consequences of bribery (without a valid reason) is disastrous in the hereafter. However, if the government accepted the quotation for the goods that will be supplied, and concluded the transaction, then the transaction will be valid. The monies received in lieu of the goods sold to the government will be Halaal. However, one is required to sincerely repent for bribing the corrupt official and should refrain from doing so in the future.
Re:- Aap Ke Masaa’il Aur Unka Hal Pg.212 Vol.7
ALLAH TA’ALA KNOWS BEST!
ANSWERED BY:
Mufti Mohammed Desai
Date: 29 Shawwal 1443 / 31 May 2022
