KIIT and KISS founder Achyuta Samanta misused govt machinery to acquire GA, IDCO and forest land: OSAA

The allegations against KIIT and KISS founder Achyuta Samanta are not fabricated, but based on information obtained through the Right to Information (RTI) Act and government records, claimed Odisha Soochana Adhikar Abhijan (OSAA) in a press conference here on Tuesday.

OSAA Counters Defence Narratives

Following the allegations against Kalinga Institute of Industrial Technology (KIIT) and Kalinga Institute of Social Sciences (KISS), various organizations and individuals came forward in support of Achyuta Samanta, questioning the credibility of the claims. However, OSAA has clarified that the accusations are backed by evidence and not mere rumours. 

The organization also demanded that the attempts to protect Achyuta Samanta through misleading statements should be scrutinized.

Also Read: KIIT founder Achyuta Samanta under fire for using students & guardians as shields to target media

Allegations of Land Misuse and Student Welfare Concerns

OSAA alleged that during the previous BJD government, Achyuta Samanta misused government machinery and illegally acquired GA (General Administration) land, IDCO land, and even forest land for personal and institutional purposes. 

“The allegations of illegal activities and land grab against KIIT and KISS are based on facts and not fabricated. Undue favours were shown to Achyuta Samanta and it was highlighted in CAG report regarding allotment of land. The state government has incurred a loss of Rs 250 crore by this. The 12 acre revenue land of GA department was acquired in 2012, a case was registered with Director of Estate and direction issued for eviction. Now allegations have come that they have acquired 30 acres of forest land. The KIIT and KISS officials or the founder should clarify on this,” alleged RTI Activist, Pradip Pradhan.

Additionally, the Child Welfare Committee (CWC), in its report, has highlighted the poor conditions of tribal students at KISS, raising further concerns about their well-being.

Call for Clarification

Despite the seriousness of the allegations, Achyuta Samanta has remained silent on the matter. OSAA has demanded that he (Achyuta Samanta) should issue a public clarification regarding the accusations and provide a transparent account of the situation.

No Response from KIIT, KISS Authorities or Achyuta Samanta

As of now, there has been no official response from KIIT, KISS authorities, or Achyuta Samanta himself over these allegations. The matter continues to stir discussions across the state, with demands for accountability and transparency growing stronger.