How Did an Ex-PEO Embezzle Rs 1.37 Crore in Odisha?
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Synopsis
The recent arrest of a former Panchayat Executive Officer in Odisha for embezzling over Rs 1.37 crore has raised serious concerns about financial oversight in local governance. This incident highlights the need for stricter controls and accountability mechanisms to prevent such fraudulent activities in the future.
Key Takeaways
- Ex-PEO Samir Kumar Mishra arrested for embezzlement.
- Alleged amount embezzled exceeds Rs 1.37 crore.
- Fraud conducted via forged documents.
- Joint signatures required for fund withdrawals.
- Investigation initiated by Block Development Officer.
Bhubaneswar, May 25 (NationPress) The Berhampur Police apprehended a former Panchayat Executive Officer (PEO) in Odisha's Ganjam district on Sunday, accused of embezzling government funds exceeding Rs 1.37 crore through fraudulent documentation. The 29-year-old suspect, Samir Kumar Mishra, who previously served as PEO of Keluapalli Gram Panchayat (GP) in the Rangeilunda block, hails from the Aska region of Ganjam district.
The extensive financial misconduct was unveiled when Biswajit Ray, the Block Development Officer (BDO) of Rangeilunda, filed a complaint at the Golanthara police station.
Investigators discovered that Mishra had been functioning as PEO of Keluapalli GP since 2019.
Evidence revealed that Mishra managed all financial dealings of the GP with the Sarapanch's endorsement.
For the purpose of advancing government projects, Mishra was entrusted with cheque books, cash books, and other critical documents, serving as their custodian.
Withdrawal of funds required both the PEO's and Sarapanch’s signatures, as all accounts were joint.
However, Mishra, driven by personal gain and fraudulent intent, forged the Sarapanch's signature on cheque books and illicitly withdrew around Rs 1.37 crore by presenting these fraudulent cheques at the Union Bank branch in Tulu, Ganjam district, over the past year,” a senior police official stated.
The investigation also revealed that Mishra had created a counterfeit passbook, which he handed over to the current PEO, Susanta Kumar Pattanik, of Keluapalli GP.
“During the annual audit for the year 2023-24, Mishra produced these fake passbooks for verification. The entire embezzled amount was misappropriated for his personal use, despite knowing that the funds were allocated for the development initiatives of Keluapalli GP,” the police official added.
Point of View
It is essential to recognize the implications of such fraudulent activities on governance. This incident in Odisha serves as a stark reminder of the vulnerabilities within our financial systems and the need for comprehensive reforms to safeguard public funds.
NationPress
25/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the amount embezzled by the Ex-PEO?
The former Panchayat Executive Officer embezzled over Rs 1.37 crore.
How was the embezzlement discovered?
The fraud was uncovered following a complaint lodged by Biswajit Ray, the Block Development Officer.
What role did the Sarapanch play in the embezzlement?
The Ex-PEO forged the Sarapanch's signature to withdraw the funds illegally.
What measures are in place to prevent such frauds?
Regular audits and improved financial controls are necessary to prevent such fraudulent activities.
Is the current PEO involved in the fraud?
The current PEO, Susanta Kumar Pattanik, received a fake passbook from the accused, but is not implicated in the fraud.
