Did Odisha Vigilance Arrest a Former Panchayat Official for Embezzling Over Rs 53 Lakh?
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Synopsis
In a significant move, Odisha Vigilance has apprehended a former Panchayat Executive Officer for misappropriating government funds exceeding Rs 53 lakh. This shocking revelation raises questions about accountability and transparency in local governance. Stay tuned to learn more about the investigation and its implications on public trust.
Key Takeaways
- Akrura Majhi arrested for misappropriating over Rs 53 lakh.
- Investigation initiated by Odisha Vigilance.
- Funds were allocated under the 15th Central Finance Commission.
- Majhi falsely reported project executions.
- Case registered under multiple sections of the law.
Bhubaneswar, June 19 (NationPress) The Odisha Vigilance has apprehended a former Panchayat Executive Officer (PEO) for allegedly embezzling government funds exceeding Rs 53 lakh in the Daringbadi block of Kandhamal district, as per official reports released on Thursday.
After receiving a notification from the Panchayati Raj department regarding the misappropriation of funds, the Odisha Vigilance initiated an investigation against Akrura Majhi, the former PEO of Saramuli Gram Panchayat in Daringbadi.
“Upon verification, it was revealed that Ex-PEO Majhi had misappropriated government funds amounting to Rs 53,38,809, which were allocated under the 15th Central Finance Commission and the 5th State Finance Commission. This occurred during the period from October 31, 2023, to November 18, 2024, while he was serving in his capacity,” the vigilance official elaborated.
In contrast, Majhi reported the execution of various works in the Cash Book and falsely indicated payments for the alleged completed projects.
The accused was dismissed after the investigation revealed that he had caused significant financial loss to the government by misappropriating Rs 53,38,809. Currently, he is assigned to the office of the Block Development Officer in Daringbadi.
Following the investigation, Akrura Majhi was taken into custody by Odisha Vigilance and subsequently presented to the Court of Special Judge, Vigilance, in Phulbani on Thursday.
A case has been filed against Majhi under sections 13(2), 13(1) of the PC (Amendment) Act, 2018, and section 316(5) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita.
It is important to note that multiple government officials, including IAS, OAS officers, and senior engineers, have recently faced scrutiny by the vigilance department for financial irregularities and corruption charges.
Earlier this month, the Vigilance Department also arrested Dhiman Chakma, a 2021-batch IAS officer and the sub-collector of Dharamgarh in Kalahandi district, for allegedly accepting a bribe of Rs 10 lakh from a businessman.
Point of View
It is essential to underscore that accountability is crucial for public trust. The recent arrest of the former Panchayat Executive Officer highlights the need for stringent oversight of government officials to ensure transparency and integrity. Our commitment to reporting such incidents reflects our dedication to serving the public interest and promoting good governance.
NationPress
19/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What position did Akrura Majhi hold?
Akrura Majhi served as the former Panchayat Executive Officer of Saramuli Gram Panchayat in the Daringbadi block.
How much money was allegedly misappropriated?
The alleged misappropriation amounts to over Rs 53 lakh.
What actions were taken against Majhi?
Majhi was arrested by Odisha Vigilance and has been presented to the Court of Special Judge, Vigilance, in Phulbani.
Under which sections has a case been filed against him?
A case has been registered against Majhi under sections 13(2), 13(1) of the PC (Amendment) Act, 2018, and section 316(5) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita.
Have there been other similar cases recently?
Yes, multiple officials, including IAS and OAS officers, have come under scrutiny for financial irregularities and corruption charges.
