Massive MGNREGA scam surfaces in Odisha’s Bolangir, BDO’s driver under scanner

Allegations of a major financial scam under the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA) have surfaced from Odisha’s Bolangir district, with the spotlight falling on the driver of the Block Development Officer (BDO) in Bangomunda block.

According to exclusive documentation accessed by OTV, lakhs of rupees in government funds were allegedly misappropriated over a four-year period without any actual work being executed.

As per reports, the accused is Pitambar Nag, who serves as the BDO’s official driver. He is suspected of siphoning off funds meant for rural employment under the MGNREGA scheme. 

Sources indicate that the embezzlement was systematic, involving falsification of records and manipulation of financial data to divert government allocations meant for wage disbursement and infrastructure development.

Widespread Manipulation, Deepening Suspicion

Documents reviewed reveal that multiple transactions were routed in the name of MGNREGA activities, but physical verification suggests that much of the sanctioned work was never executed.

The scale of the irregularities points to a broader nexus, with growing suspicion over the possible involvement or negligence of block-level administrative officials.

The scam reportedly took place over a span of four years, during which time the driver continued to occupy his position without interruption. The consistent nature of the financial irregularities has raised questions about oversight mechanisms and internal audits within the block administration.

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There is also mounting speculation about the role of senior officials, including the BDO, in either enabling or failing to detect the fraud.

Authorities Yet to Respond

Despite the serious nature of the allegations and the availability of documentary evidence, no formal statement has been issued yet by either the Bangomunda BDO or the accused driver. Attempts to reach both for comment have been unsuccessful.