‘Transport scam’: EOW interrogates Keonjhar BJD leader Raja Chakra

A prominent leader of the Biju Janata Dal (BJD), Raja Chakra was questioned by the Economic Offences Wing (EOW) of the Odisha Crime Branch on Monday. The interrogation, which started at 11 am today, is part of an ongoing investigation into an alleged Rs 500 crore transport fraud case.

The inquiry follows the arrests of two individuals, Manas Ranjan Barik and Utkal Das, both allegedly connected to the intricate fraud case. 

The EOW had earlier arrested Barik and Das, who were ex-officials of Gandhamardhan Loading Agency & Transporting Cooperative Society Ltd. in Keonjhar, on the charges of committing fraud and misappropriating Rs 40 to Rs 50 crore.

Also Read: EOW nabs ex-president, secretary of cooperative society engaged in loading of iron ores for fraud

Significance and Context:

The Economic Offences Wing, known for tackling large-scale financial scams, continues to delve into the specifics of this case, highlighting the state's commitment to curbing financial misconduct.

As per EOW, from 2017-18 to 2023- 24, the operation of the Society was monopolized by a handful of influential outsiders including the office bearers who by entering into a criminal conspiracy and manufacturing false documents pertaining to the labour payment, periphery development, infrastructural expenses, payment to the affected members, EPF deductions etc., misappropriated crores of rupees.

EOW Findings So Far:

As per the EOW, the Cooperative Society used to charge exorbitantly for loading iron ores- Rs 60 per ton from the buyer agencies, which is abnormally higher than any other loading agency. The Cooperative Society was profiting a lot over the years and was increasing the loading charge every year. 

Besides, the Cooperative Society had shown payment to different persons, agencies etc. in the name of different expenses without any supporting instruments like tender, work order, UC, and vouchers among others.