Ganjam PEO Death Row: Controversy deepens after officer's demise

The death of the Panchayat Executive Officer (PEO) of Ramachandrapur panchayat under Chikiti block in Odisha’s Ganjam district further intensified the administrative controversy that began with allegations of misconduct against him.

Dandapani Patra died after battling for 13 days in hospital following an alleged suicide attempt by consuming poison.

His death triggered widespread debate, with questions being raised over the circumstances that led to the extreme step and whether the allegations levelled against him had substance.

Allegations, Counter-Complaint And Public Reaction

The Additional Woman Tehsildar of Chikiti block had lodged a complaint before the Internal Complaints Committee (ICC) and filed an FIR at Golanthara police station, alleging inappropriate behaviour by Patra during a marathon organised on February 3 as part of a local festival.

Following the complaint, Patra allegedly consumed poison and was admitted to MKCG Medical College and Hospital, where he later succumbed.

Local resident Appa Rao said, “He was a good person. He used to clean the village himself and never took bribes from anyone. He had worked for over a decade. We are extremely saddened over his demise.”

Responding to the controversy, the Additional Woman Tehsildar said, “The way any woman should react to such an incident, I reacted similarly. As per law, I filed a complaint with the ICC and lodged an FIR. My statement was recorded and action is to be taken following the investigation.”

Investigation Underway From Multiple Angles

Berhampur Sub-Collector Avinash Kumar said, “The Chikiti Additional Tehsildar had complained to the ICC. At the Sub-Divisional Level Internal Complaints Committee, notices were issued to the concerned individuals. The matter is in process and the police are investigating. Action will be taken after the enquiry.”

Berhampur SP Saravana Vivek M said, “While the matter was under investigation, we received information that the concerned PEO had attempted to take his own life. His family later filed a counter-complaint alleging misbehaviour by the lady Additional Tehsildar. Both matters are under investigation.”

Also Read: Chikiti PEO dies after consuming poison amid misconduct allegation

He added, “We later learnt that the PEO died. A post-mortem was conducted before the body was handed over to the family. The case remains under investigation.”