Odisha Vigilance arrests PEO for embezzling govt funds over Rs 1 crore

In a move highlighting the drive towards transparency, the Vigilance on Sunday arrested Surendra Bhatra, a suspended Panchayat Executive Officer (PEO) of Turudihi panchayat in Raighar block of Nabarangpur district, over allegations of embezzling government funds worth over Rs 1 crore.

The charges involve the misappropriation of approximately 50 lakh rupees intended for two Panchayats, Kachrapara and Parchipara, located within the Raighar Block. Additionally, he had embezzled around Rs 60 lakh during his tenure as PEO in Turudihi Panchayat, with total amounting to around Rs 1.10 crore.

According to sources, Bhatra diverted funds meant for development programmes, raising concerns about the financial oversight of local governance bodies.  He had been put under suspension after Raighar BDO Lakshmi Sagar Majhi filed a complaint against him at Kundei police station.

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Later, the Turudihi sarpanch and villagers also accused Bhatra of suspicious financial activities. Moreover, while holding additional charge of Kacharapara panchayat and Parchipara panchayat, Bhatra had embezzled around Rs 50L.

The allegations emerged after villagers spotted discrepancies and approached Raighar BDO. Since then Bhatra was under suspension, underscoring issues of accountability and governance within regional administrative structures.

The Vigilance Department's actions resonate with wider efforts to ensure the prudent use of public funds, reflecting a commitment to transparency in public administration.