Rourkela: A former junior engineer in Sundargarh district was convicted and sentenced to two years' rigorous imprisonment by the special judge, vigilance, Sundargarh on Wednesday for misappropriating government funds by showing payments to labourers without engaging them.
The convict, Anup Kumar Das (69), a retired junior engineer of Balisankara block and a resident of Chancha village under Baripada police limits in Mayurbhanj, had been entrusted with funds for excavation of Rapatjore pond under the Employment Assurance Scheme (EAS) during 2001-02.
According to the prosecution, Das misappropriated Rs 1,560 by forging signatures and left thumb impressions of labourers on muster rolls. The court sentenced him to two years' rigorous imprisonment and imposed a fine of Rs 5,000. In default of payment, he will have to undergo an additional two months of rigorous imprisonment.
He was convicted under sections 13(2) read with 13(1)(c)(d) of the Prevention of Corruption Act, 1988, and sections 409 and 477-A of the IPC. The court ordered that the period already spent in custody during the trial be set off. Following the conviction, Odisha vigilance said it will move the competent authority to stop Das's pension.
This case highlights the vigilance department's commitment to tackling corruption in public works. The misuse of funds meant for rural development schemes undermines trust and hampers progress. The court's swift action serves as a deterrent to others who may contemplate similar fraudulent activities.
Das, who retired from service, now faces the consequences of his actions from nearly two decades ago. The sentencing comes as a reminder that vigilance and accountability are crucial in government projects, especially those aimed at uplifting rural communities.
