Balasore Post Office scam allegation: Hundreds of depositors claim Rs 1.5 Crore misappropriation

Serious allegations of large-scale financial irregularities have surfaced at the Baiganbadia Post Office under Jaleswar police station limits in Odisha’s Balasore district, where over Rs 1.5 crore is allegedly reported to have been misappropriated from the accounts of hundreds of depositors.

The matter came to light on Monday, triggering widespread concern and distress among affected account holders, many of whom claimed to have invested their life savings in various post office savings schemes.

Postmaster Accused of Misappropriation

According to allegations, a postmaster identified as Pramit Ranjan Ghadei allegedly siphoned off more than Rs 1.5 crore from over 1,500 accounts linked to different post office schemes involving nearly 600 depositors. Depositors further alleged that the accused is currently absconding.

They claimed that Ghadei collected money under multiple pretexts, at times accepting deposits on plain paper and, in other instances, issuing receipts bearing official stamps. Trusting the credibility of a Central government institution and the official stamp, depositors said they did not suspect any irregularity.

Allegations of Forged Signatures

Depositors also alleged that in several cases, the accused forged their signatures and withdrew money from their accounts without their knowledge or consent. Many said they discovered the irregularities only after repeated follow-ups and account verifications, when discrepancies in their balances came to light.

Despite lodging complaints with postal authorities and other officials at various levels, depositors alleged that no concrete action has been taken so far, and no relief has been provided.

Depositors Threaten Protest

Expressing anguish, several depositors warned of protests if authorities fail to initiate a proper investigation, recover the misappropriated funds, and take strict action against the accused.

One distressed depositor said, “We are extremely poor, and my husband is bedridden. I worked very hard to earn the money I deposited, which has now been misappropriated. I request Chief Minister Mohan Majhi to hear our plea. We are unable to even take my husband to a doctor due to lack of money.”

Another depositor said, “I had deposited Rs 3 lakh, but I was not given any documents. Because of this misappropriation, I could not even build a house. I appeal to the Chief Minister to help us get our money back.”

Postal Department Response

Responding to the allegations, Binay Kumar Patra, Postmaster of Dahamunda Post Office, said he was unaware of the case as he had joined only recently.

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“I joined in January and do not have prior knowledge of the matter. Whenever depositors approach me regarding their money, I forward all information to my senior officials. The senior authorities will look into the issue. Those who have suffered should get their money back,” he said.

Officials said further action would be taken after a detailed inquiry.