Did Odisha Transport Dept official own assets 6 times more than his income?
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Synopsis
In a shocking revelation, Odisha Vigilance has arrested a senior official from the State Transport Department for owning assets worth more than six times his legitimate income. This case shines a light on the ongoing battle against corruption within public services.
Key Takeaways
- Odisha Vigilance is actively combating corruption among public officials.
- Golap Chandra Hansdah was arrested for possessing disproportionate assets.
- The investigation revealed assets exceeding six times his known income sources.
- Searches uncovered multiple properties and significant valuables.
- The case underscores the need for transparency and accountability in public service.
Bhubaneswar, July 4 (NationPress) In an ongoing effort to combat corruption among public officials, the Odisha Vigilance team arrested a senior member of the State Transport Department on Monday. This individual was discovered to possess assets exceeding six times his declared sources of income.
The individual in question, Golap Chandra Hansdah, serves as an MVI at the Regional Transport Office located in Boudh district.
Acting on search warrants issued by the Special Judge, Vigilance in Baripada, the Odisha Vigilance initiated coordinated searches at various properties associated with Hansdah in Baripada, Boudh, and Bhubaneswar.
The court had issued these warrants based on accusations of holding disproportionate assets (DA) by Hansdah.
A team comprising four Deputy Superintendents of Police, seven Inspectors, and additional support staff executed the search operation at six locations, which included a residential property in Prafulla Nagar, Baripada, Hansdah's ancestral home in Gudidiha village under Khunta police jurisdiction in Mayurbhanj district, and his office at Boudh.
During the searches, the vigilance officers uncovered that Hansdah and his family owned a multi-storeyed building in Baripada town, along with 44 plots—43 located in and around Baripada and one on the outskirts of Balasore. The findings also included over one kilogram of gold, including gold biscuits weighing 50 grams each, silver ornaments totaling 2.126 kgs, bank and insurance deposits amounting to over Rs 1.34 crore, and an expenditure of Rs 40 lakhs for his daughter’s medical education. Additionally, the searches revealed one four-wheeler, three two-wheelers, and household goods valued at approximately Rs 16.06 lakhs.
“After a comprehensive search, inventory, and further investigation, it was determined that Hansdah's income, expenditures, and assets indicated he possessed disproportionate assets totaling 630 percent more than his declared income sources,” stated sources from the vigilance department.
Hansdah, who began his government career in 1991, advanced to junior MVI in 2003 and later became MVI in 2020, with his current posting at the RTO office in Boudh.
Point of View
I believe that the actions taken by Odisha Vigilance are a critical step toward restoring trust in public institutions. This case serves as a reminder that accountability is essential in governance, and those entrusted with public service must be held to the highest standards.
NationPress
20/08/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What prompted the arrest of the Odisha Transport Dept official?
The arrest was prompted by allegations of possession of disproportionate assets, leading to a thorough investigation and search of the official's properties.
What were the findings during the searches?
The searches revealed a multi-storeyed building, numerous plots, significant gold and silver possessions, as well as bank deposits exceeding Rs 1.34 crore.
How has the official's tenure been in government services?
The accused, Golap Chandra Hansdah, began his service in 1991 and has held various positions, including being promoted to MVI in 2020.
What measures are being taken against corruption in Odisha?
The Odisha Vigilance continues to actively investigate and take stringent actions against public officials involved in corruption to ensure accountability.
What is the significance of this case?
This case is significant as it highlights the ongoing efforts to combat corruption and restore faith in public service by holding officials accountable.
