OTV Impact: Vigilance investigation begins into MGNREGA irregularities in Bolangir

In a major development, the Bolangir Vigilance department has initiated an investigation into alleged corruption on Saturday under the MGNREGA scheme in Asurla village of Kapilabhata panchayat in Bangomunda block. The action follows a news report aired by OTV highlighting serious irregularities in the implementation of the employment guarantee scheme.

After the report surfaced, Bolangir Vigilance swung into action and began a preliminary inquiry to verify the allegations raised.

DSP Conducts On-Spot Inquiry

As part of the investigation, Bolangir Vigilance DSP Pulasti Chhatriya visited Asurla village and conducted a field-level inquiry. Officials examined records and interacted with locals to assess the claims of malpractice in wage payments under the scheme.

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Payments Made in Names of Non-Workers

According to the allegations, although genuine labourers had carried out work under the MGNREGA scheme, wages were reportedly credited to the accounts of non-workers. Shockingly, funds were also allegedly transferred in the name of the Bangomunda block BDO’s driver, showing him as having worked under the scheme.

These revelations point to serious manipulation of records and misuse of government funds meant for rural employment.

The vigilance inquiry is expected to bring accountability and clarity to the allegations of corruption. The case highlights the role of media scrutiny in prompting action and the need for strict monitoring to ensure welfare schemes reach genuine beneficiaries.