EOW, STF raid BJD leader Raja Chakra's properties in Keonjhar amid large-scale fraud allegation

Authorities from Economic Offences Wing (EOW) and Special Task Force (STF) have conducted raids at multiple locations linked to Biju Janata Dal (BJD) leader Raja Chakra in Keonjhar on Tuesday. 

This move is reportedly part of an investigation focused on a significant transport scam involving alleged financial misconduct.

Raids at many places

As per reports, the officials executed searches at ten properties associated with Raja Chakra throughout prominent mining belts in the state, including Sundargarh, Sambalpur, Keonjhar, and Gopalpur in Brahmapur. The probe has led to an extensive 11-hour interrogation of the leader, formally known as Soumyashankar Chakra.

Allegations of embezzlement

The centre of the investigation is the Gandhamardan Loading and Transport Cooperative Society, wherein it is suspected that crores of rupees have been embezzled. A member of the cooperative reportedly exposed the alleged wrongdoings, accusing Raja Chakra of being the orchestrator behind the deceptive scheme.

As per the allegations, false transactions were reported at a charge of Rs 60 per tonne, mounting monthly dealings to between 500,000 and 1,000,000 tonnes and facilitating illicit financial gains. It has been alleged that most cooperative society members, apart from a select few favoured by Raja Chakra, have not received their rightful earnings.

Allegations of intimidation and misconduct 

Allegations have surfaced that members who opposed the fraudulent activities faced retaliatory actions, including being falsely implicated in charges and arbitrary arrests. Despite having designated offices, operations were purportedly conducted out of a private residence, hinting at concealed unlawful activities.

The whistleblower expressed hope that the current investigation by the EOW will unearth the entire truth of these allegations. Raja Chakra, however, has yet to publicly address these claims.

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"Most cooperative society members, apart from a select few favoured by Raja Chakra, have not received their rightful earnings. Members who opposed the fraudulent activities faced retaliatory actions, including being falsely implicated in charges and arbitrary arrests. Raja Chakra is the main culprit behind it. EOW should make peroper investigation into it," said Narottam Barik, a member of the Gandhamardan Loading and Transport Cooperative Society.