Odisha Forester, Gaon Saathi arrested for embezzling govt funds over Rs 10L

A forester and his aide were arrested by Odisha Vigilance officials on Tuesday on the allegations of embezzling government funds. The forester has been identified as Ramesh Chandra Bhatra of Bagaderi section of Kundra forest range. 

The authorities have also arrested his alleged accomplice, Mahendra Khara, a Gaon Saathi of Dangarapali village under Kundra block in Koraput district. They stand accused of misappropriating public funds amounting to Rs 10.6 lakh.

The duo was arrested and forwarded to the Court of Special Judge Vigilance, Jeypore by Odisha Vigilance for misappropriation of government funds to the tune of Rs 10,60,150  in execution of Cattle Proof Trench.

Also Read: BJD leader, govt employee held for 'embezzling' Rs 1.19 crore meant for OMBADC projects

The alleged embezzlement involved funds that were reportedly allocated for forestry operations in the region. Both Bhatra and Khara are expected to face legal proceedings as the investigation progresses as Odisha Vigilance has registered case vide Koraput Vigilance PS case No.24/2024 U/s 13(2)r/w13(1)(a) PC Amendment Act, 2018 /316(5)/318(4)336(3)/61(2)BNS against both the accused.

A thorough investigation is currently underway to uncover the full extent of the alleged financial misconduct. Officials have stated that they are committed to ensuring transparency and accountability within government operations.

Further investigation into this connection is underway.

Notably, on September 13, 2024, the Baripada Vigilance Unit arrested BJD leader and former Suliapada Block president Dibyalochan Das on charges of embezzling Rs 1.19 crore meant for the development of the block and the panchayats.

The anti-corruption bureau also arrested a contractual employee Manoj Deo for allegedly assisting Das in the embezzlement of the funds.