What Did Odisha Vigilance Discover in Its Investigation?
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Synopsis
Discover the shocking revelations from Odisha Vigilance regarding the unearthing of assets worth crores linked to government officials. This investigation raises significant questions about corruption in public service and the accountability of those in power. Read on for crucial details.
Key Takeaways
- Odisha Vigilance discovered assets worth crores linked to government officials.
- Searches were conducted at multiple locations.
- Findings included cash, gold jewellery, and high-value properties.
- Two officials were specifically targeted for possessing disproportionate assets.
- The investigations underscore the need for accountability in public service.
Bhubaneswar, Dec 31 (NationPress) On Tuesday, the Odisha Vigilance uncovered assets valued at several crores during a series of house searches involving two government officials, including an Additional Tehasildar.
As per sources from the vigilance department, the searches were initiated following allegations regarding the possession of assets that were disproportionate to the declared sources of income. Four teams, consisting of four Deputy SPs, seven Inspectors, and additional support staff, executed searches at the residences of Jitendra Kumar Panda, Additional Tahasildar of Barang in Cuttack district, at four locations across Bhubaneswar, Cuttack, and Khordha.
The investigation revealed that Panda and his relatives owned two triple-storeyed buildings, a two BHK flat in Bhubaneswar, a double-storeyed structure in Khordha, four high-value plots (three in upscale Bhubaneswar and one in Khordha), 500 grams of gold jewellery, over Rs 72 lakhs in cash, and bank and insurance deposits totaling around Rs 20 lakhs.
Vigilance officials anticipate discovering further assets as investigations continue, with reports still forthcoming.
In a related case, during another round of searches targeting disproportionate assets, vigilance teams discovered substantial properties belonging to Panchayat Executive Officer (PEO) Jitendra Kumar Jena of Hatadihi block in Keonjhar district, along with those owned by his family.
The anti-corruption unit has so far identified that Jena and his family possess assets worth crores, which include a triple-storeyed building, a double-storeyed market complex, six plots, approximately 100 grams of gold, deposits amounting to Rs 34.06 lakhs, and one four-wheeler.
Additionally, Fanindra Kumar Sahu, the former Managing Director of Jamankira Large-sized Agricultural Multi-Purpose Cooperative Society (LAMPCS) Ltd. in Sambalpur district, was apprehended by Odisha Vigilance for the embezzlement of over Rs 79 lakhs.
According to vigilance sources, this arrest followed an inquiry into financial irregularities during the 2021–22 fiscal year, in which a total of Rs 79.28 lakhs was allegedly misappropriated. Sahu is accused of collecting loan repayments directly from local farmers but failing to record these transactions in the Day Book, the main accounting document.
To mask the missing funds, he reportedly submitted fraudulent repayment vouchers to the Sambalpur District Cooperative Central Bank (SDCC Bank), Jamankira branch, affixing fake seals to create the illusion of official bank verification.
Point of View
It is crucial to highlight that the ongoing investigations by Odisha Vigilance point to serious concerns regarding corruption within the public sector. Such revelations demand accountability and transparency from officials entrusted with public service, reinforcing the need for stringent measures to combat such discrepancies.
NationPress
31/12/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What assets were uncovered by Odisha Vigilance?
Odisha Vigilance uncovered assets including multiple properties, cash exceeding Rs 72 lakhs, substantial gold jewellery, and various bank and insurance deposits.
Who were the officials implicated in the investigation?
The investigation primarily involved Jitendra Kumar Panda, an Additional Tahasildar, and Jitendra Kumar Jena, a Panchayat Executive Officer, along with former Managing Director Fanindra Kumar Sahu.
What were the allegations against the officials?
The officials are accused of possessing assets disproportionate to their known sources of income, leading to investigations by the Odisha Vigilance.
What actions has Odisha Vigilance taken?
Odisha Vigilance conducted house searches at multiple locations, resulting in significant asset discoveries and arrests linked to financial misappropriation.
What is the significance of these investigations?
These investigations highlight the ongoing issues of corruption within government sectors and the need for greater accountability in public service.
