Odisha: Did Two Excise Officials Accept Bribes from a Liquor Vendor?
Synopsis
In a significant operation, the Odisha Vigilance has arrested two senior officials of the State Excise Department for allegedly accepting bribes from a liquor vendor. This incident raises serious concerns about corruption within the government sector and highlights the ongoing battle against corruption.
Key Takeaways
Corruption in Excise Department: Highlighting ongoing issues of corruption.
Trapping of Officials: Vigilance successfully set a trap to catch officials in the act.
Legal Proceedings: Legal actions are underway against the arrested officials.
Public Awareness: Importance of reporting corruption to authorities.
Accountability: Need for accountability in public service.
Bhubaneswar, Nov 19 (NationPress) On Wednesday, the Odisha Vigilance apprehended two high-ranking officials from the State Excise Department, including the Excise Superintendent of Keonjhar district, for allegedly accepting a bribe from a liquor vendor in return for allowing uninterrupted business operations.
The arrested excise officials are identified as Sitarani Pattayat, the Superintendent of Excise in Keonjhar, and Bijay Kumar Mohanta, ASI-cum-OIC at the Champua Excise Station of the same district.
According to sources from the vigilance, Pattayat had been soliciting bribes from the complainant since she took office a few months ago. A senior vigilance official stated, “Since assuming her role as Excise Superintendent in Keonjhar four months prior, Pattayat demanded regular bribes from the licensed vendor to guarantee the smooth operation of his business. When the vendor could take no more, he reported the harassment to the Vigilance authorities.”
In response to the complaint, a trap was set on Wednesday, leading to the capture of Pattayat, alongside her colleague Mohanta, who accepted a bribe of Rs 40,000 from the vendor, following Pattayat's telephonic instructions.
The entire amount was recovered and seized by vigilance officials in the presence of witnesses. Subsequently, simultaneous searches were conducted at Pattayat's rented residence in Keonjhar, her home in Baripada, her spouse's accommodation in Dhamnagar, and the residential and office premises of Mohanta in Boisinga.
Both individuals are now in custody and will be presented in court on Thursday. A case (17/25) has been filed at the Balasore Vigilance Police Station on Tuesday under Section 7 of the Corruption (Amendment) Act, 2018.
Point of View
We believe it is imperative to shed light on corruption in government sectors. The arrest of two excise officials in Odisha demonstrates a commitment to transparency and accountability. We must continue to support efforts to combat corruption and ensure integrity in public service.
NationPress
6 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What were the officials arrested for?
The officials were arrested for allegedly accepting bribes from a liquor vendor to allow him to operate his business without interference.
Who are the arrested officials?
The arrested officials are Sitarani Pattayat, the Excise Superintendent of Keonjhar district, and Bijay Kumar Mohanta, ASI-cum-OIC at Champua Excise Station.
What actions were taken by the Vigilance?
The Vigilance set up a trap based on the vendor's complaint, which led to the arrest of the officials after accepting the bribe.
What is the amount involved in the bribe?
The bribe amount involved was Rs 40,000.
What legal actions are being taken?
A case has been registered under Section 7 of the Corruption (Amendment) Act, 2018, and the officials will be presented in court.
