Bhubaneswar, 22 February (H.S.):
In a significant anti-corruption operation, the Odisha Vigilance has arrested Sri Satyabrata Baral, the Panchayat Extension Officer (PEO) of Ghuchaguda G.P under Sinapali Block, Dist-Nuapada, along with his brother Sri Uttam Baral, a private individual, for the embezzlement of government funds amounting to Rs. 7,20,981.
The arrests are part of an ongoing investigation into the misappropriation of funds related to various development works under the Common Fund (CFC) and Special Fund (SFC) for Kureswar G.P during the financial year 2024-2025. The funds were allegedly siphoned off for non-existent projects, including the installation of high-mast lights, repairs to street lights, and the supply of gym equipment for a park in Kureswar G.P.
Further investigation revealed that none of the projects were carried out, despite the funds being transferred. A total of Rs. 4.2 lakhs was credited to the accounts of the Baral brothers, while the remaining Rs. 3,00,981 was transferred to the account of Sri Barun Das, the PEO of Kureswar G.P.
The Odisha Vigilance has registered a case under Section 13(2) read with 13(1)(a) of the Prevention of Corruption (Amendment) Act, 2018, along with Sections 316(5) and 61BNS. Those arrested include Sri Satyabrata Baral, Sri Uttam Baral, Smt. Bijaylaxmi Baral, the Sarpanch of Kureswar G.P, and Sri Barun Das, PEO of Kureswar G.P. The case was registered under Koraput Vigilance Police Station on 21st February 2025.
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Hindusthan Samachar / Monalisa Panda
