Proxy rule, corruption allegations surface against Sarpanch’s husband in Odisha’s Bolangir; Gaon Sathi also attacked

Serious allegations have surfaced against Papi Suna, husband of Arti Suna, the elected sarpanch of Dhamandanga panchayat under Turekela block in Odisha's Bolangir district, for allegedly misusing his wife’s official position and functioning as a proxy sarpanch.

According to reports, Papi Suna has been managing panchayat affairs unlawfully and faces charges of large-scale corruption in MGNREGA projects.

He has also been accused of threatening and assaulting Dronacharya Rana, the Gaon Sathi of Rajamara village, after allegedly demanding bribes and pressuring him to assist in the embezzlement of MGNREGA funds. When Rana reportedly refused, Suna allegedly attacked him. Following the complaint, a case has been registered at Kantabanji police station, and a police investigation is currently underway.

Gaon Sathi Dronacharya Rana said, “The sarpanch’s husband, Papi Suna, suddenly attacked me, accusing me of embezzling funds. He physically assaulted me and could have caused serious harm if another individual had not intervened. He has been harassing me mentally and demanding money, threatening that if I did not comply, he would take legal action and remove me from my job. He also took bribes from others in the village in exchange for Gaon Sathi positions. I have all the evidence of the transactions made.”

Violation of High Court Ruling Alleged

As per reports, the Orissa High Court had ruled that proxy sarpanches cannot perform official duties on behalf of their elected spouses. However, it has been alleged that Papi Suna continued to hold meetings and official events, acting in his wife’s place despite the Court’s directive.

Payments and Police Response

Reports further claim that Suna received multiple payments amounting to Rs 10,000, Rs 12,000, Rs 15,000, and other sums. Despite the alleged evidence, the police officials have been accused of inaction on the matter. Police sources stated that the investigation into the case is ongoing.