Keonjhar police have arrested two individuals from different locations in connection with the theft of metal chips in Bandha village, under Dhokotha gram panchayat in the Ghasipura police station area. The accused have been identified as Surendra Patra and Sushanta Patra, both residents of Bandha village under Ghasipura block. According to sources, the duo had joined the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in an attempt to evade arrest, doing so in the presence of senior leaders and people's representatives. However, local BJP workers opposed their induction into the party.
Background of the Case
About eight years ago, Gayatri Company left approximately 40,000 cubic meters of metal chips at a construction site for National Highway 20. The Revenue Department seized the chips on October 13, 2018, and left them at the site. However, during a subsequent investigation, the Mining Department found only 3,965 cubic meters of chips remaining at that location.
Police Action
Deputy Superintendent of Police, Cyber and Economic Offence Police Station, Keonjhar, Bijay Kumar Bihari, stated that after receiving a complaint from the Ghasipura Tahasil office, a case (number 12/2026) was registered. The two accused were arrested and produced in court on Thursday. Further investigation is ongoing.
Previous Incidents
Sources indicate that a few years ago, the administration had seized a large quantity of chips dumped in a ground in Bandha village. In April 2026, these chips were stolen without the knowledge of the administration.
About the Author: Naresh Chandra Pattanayak is a journalist based in Keonjhar, Odisha, contributing to the Times of India. He reports on regional issues, including social, cultural, and political events in Odisha. His work covers significant local stories, such as protests, heritage site incidents, and community challenges, reflecting a commitment to highlighting regional concerns.
