Bhubaneswar, 06 November (H.S.): The Odisha Vigilance has secured the conviction of Girish Chandra Sabar, Panchayat Executive Officer (PEO) of Chahaka Gram Panchayat under Golamunda block in Kalahandi district, in a government fund misappropriation case. The court sentenced him to four years of simple imprisonment and imposed a fine.

The Special Judge, Vigilance, Bhawanipatna, pronounced the judgment on Friday . Sabar was convicted in a case registered under Section 13(2) read with Section 13(1)(c) of the Prevention of Corruption (Amendment) Act, 2018, and Section 409 of the IPC.

According to Odisha Vigilance, Sabar, who had earlier served as PEO of Sirol and Gokuleswar Gram Panchayats under Kesinga block, was charge-sheeted for misappropriating government funds meant for old-age pension beneficiaries of the two panchayats in Kalahandi district.

Following the conviction and sentencing, Sabar was taken into judicial custody to serve his prison term.

Odisha Vigilance has also decided to move the competent authority for his dismissal from government service in view of his conviction.

---------------

Hindusthan Samachar / Monalisa Panda