Bribery case: Orissa High Court directs to maintain interim protection of IAS Bishnupada Sethi

The Orissa High Court has ordered to maintain the interim protection for Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officer Bishnupada Sethi, along with his spouse and daughter, until the next hearing scheduled for March 18. 

This decision by the Court will continue to prevent any stringent measures against Sethi.

Legal Proceedings

The court's directive comes in response to Sethi's petition, which prompted the government to table a formal reply. Meanwhile, Sethi has requested additional time to counter the government's response. The court has now scheduled further hearings for March 18.
Investigation Details

The extension of protection follows a search conducted by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) at Sethi's residence. The search pertains to accusations of financial irregularities. Sethi had moved the High Court by accusing that he had been targeted without warning, implying an underlying motive to dislodge him from his official duties.

The investigation relates to alleged discrepancies involving the Bridge and Roof Company.

Must Read: Bribery case: CBI raids official residence of IAS officer Bishnupada Sethi

Notably, CBI officials had conducted an extensive search on the official residence of senior Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officer Bishnupada Sethi in Bhubaneswar on February 18.

An eight-member CBI team from New Delhi arrived at Sethi’s official quarters, initiating searches connected to alleged irregularities linked to the Bridge and Roof Company Limited. They also reportedly quizzed Sethi about the matter.