Why Did Odisha Vigilance Arrest Additional Tehsildar in Jajpur?
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Synopsis
In a significant crackdown on corruption, Odisha Vigilance has arrested an Additional Tehsildar in Jajpur for accepting a bribe intended for favorable land demarcation. This incident sheds light on the ongoing battle against corruption within government ranks. With a string of recent arrests, the vigilance agency continues to expose malpractices.
Key Takeaways
- Odisha Vigilance is actively combating corruption within government sectors.
- Bribery remains a significant issue affecting public service.
- High-profile arrests highlight the ongoing efforts to enforce accountability.
- Public trust can be restored through transparency and strict anti-corruption measures.
- Continued vigilance is necessary in tackling corrupt practices.
Bhubaneswar, Dec 20 (NationPress) The Odisha Vigilance apprehended an Additional Tehsildar on Friday after he was caught in the act of accepting a bribe from a lessee for a favorable land demarcation.
The official, identified as Pradipta Kumar Sethi, holds the position of Additional Tahasildar-cum-In-Charge Tehsildar of Binjharpur Tahasil in the Jajpur district.
Vigilance sources state that the High Court of Orissa had mandated the then Tehsildar of Binjharpur in a writ petition submitted by the lessee in 2021 to carry out the land demarcation. Since then, the lessee had persistently urged the Tehsildar to fulfill this obligation.
Nonetheless, Sethi demanded a bribe of Rs 30,000 to properly demarcate the land and to assist the lessee during the process. After numerous unsuccessful attempts to resolve the issue, the lessee reported the matter to the vigilance authorities.
In response to the lessee's complaint, vigilance operatives set a trap on Friday, catching Sethi while he was accepting the bribe amount behind a medicine store in Binjharpur from the landowner.
The entire sum of the bribe was confiscated from Sethi in the presence of witnesses.
Following the trap, simultaneous searches were executed at Sethi's rented residence in Binjharpur, his home in the Mahakalpada area of Kendrapara district, and his office.
Sethi has been taken into custody and is expected to be presented in court on Saturday. Notably, the state's anti-corruption agency arrested a senior female police officer, Sukma Hansdah, the Inspector-in-Charge (IIC) of Dasmantpur Police Station in Koraput district, the previous day for allegedly accepting a bribe to facilitate bail for an accused in a criminal case.
Reports indicate that the Odisha Vigilance has apprehended a total of 271 government employees, which includes 20 police officials, caught in bribery cases over the last 18 months.
Point of View
This incident underscores the urgent need for transparency and accountability in public service sectors. The Odisha Vigilance's actions reflect a commitment to combating corruption, which is vital for restoring public trust. It's essential that such measures continue to be enforced to ensure a fair system for all citizens.
NationPress
25/12/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the reason for the arrest of the Additional Tehsildar?
The Additional Tehsildar was arrested for accepting a bribe from a lessee in exchange for favorable land demarcation.
How much was the bribe amount?
The bribe amount demanded by the Additional Tehsildar was Rs 30,000.
What actions were taken following the arrest?
Following the arrest, simultaneous searches were conducted at the Tehsildar's residential and office locations.
How many government employees have been arrested by Odisha Vigilance recently?
Odisha Vigilance has arrested a total of 271 government employees, including 20 police officials, in bribery cases over the last 18 months.
What other recent corruption case was mentioned?
The arrest of a senior police officer, Sukma Hansdah, for allegedly accepting a bribe to facilitate bail for an accused was also mentioned.
