TV
A video showing a forest officer in Ganjam district allegedly accepting a bribe from a timber mafia has gone viral on social media, raising serious questions about corruption within the department.
The footage, recorded in the premises of the Buguda Forest Range Office, reportedly captures Ranger Pradeep Kumar Mishra accepting Rs 5000 in cash in exchange for releasing a seized timber-laden vehicle.
Viral Video Exposes Transaction
The video, now in circulation across social platforms, shows an individual identified as a timber trader handing over Rs 500 denomination notes to the Ranger. Mishra is seen counting the currency carefully before keeping it aside.
According to sources, the transaction took place inside the official quarters within the Buguda forest office compound. The money was allegedly given as a bribe to allow a timber-laden vehicle to pass without departmental action.
The emergence of the clip has caused embarrassment for the Forest Department, particularly as it comes at a time when the Odisha government has been actively pushing for afforestation and stringent measures against illegal logging.
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Officer Denies Allegations
When confronted, Ranger Mishra dismissed the allegations and denied any involvement in the bribery deal.
“I have no knowledge about this matter and have not accepted any bribe,” he reportedly told local media. His denial, however, contrasts sharply with the visuals that have surfaced, which appear to show the direct exchange of cash.
Forest Mafia-Nexus Under Scrutiny
The incident has reignited concerns about the nexus between forest officials and timber smugglers in southern Odisha. Despite regular crackdowns, illegal logging continues in the region, allegedly with tacit support from insiders.
While no official statement from senior forest authorities has yet been released, pressure is mounting on the government to take strict action.
