Panchayat Officer Arrested for Embezzling Over Rs 12 Lakh in Ganjam District
Berhampur: The panchayat executive officer (PEO) of Darubhadra in Ganjam district's Hinjili block, Trilochan Nayak, was arrested on Tuesday for allegedly embezzling over Rs 12 lakh of panchayat funds. The arrest followed a formal complaint lodged by the block development officer (BDO) of Hinjili, Sagarika Sadangi, on May 26. Nayak had been absconding since the complaint was filed, according to Sreenibash Sethy, Inspector-in-Charge of Hinjili police station.
Details of the Embezzlement
A preliminary inquiry revealed that Nayak misappropriated the funds over a period of one and a half years. BDO Sadangi stated that the investigation was initiated after the sarpanch of Darubhadra filed a complaint regarding financial irregularities. The district collector of Ganjam, Keerthi Vassan V, had already suspended Nayak on May 25 following the inquiry's findings that confirmed the misappropriation of government money. The BDO emphasized that the inquiry was conducted thoroughly before the suspension and subsequent arrest.
Legal Proceedings and Impact
Nayak is currently in police custody pending further investigation. The embezzled amount, totaling over Rs 12 lakh, was meant for developmental activities in the panchayat. Authorities are now scrutinizing financial records to determine if any other individuals were involved in the scheme. The case highlights ongoing concerns about financial accountability in local governance bodies across Odisha. Residents of Darubhadra have expressed outrage over the incident, demanding stricter oversight of panchayat funds.
The arrest underscores the state government's commitment to tackling corruption at the grassroots level. Similar cases have been reported in other districts, prompting calls for enhanced auditing mechanisms. The investigation is ongoing, and further arrests are not ruled out.
