Sundargarh Civil Supplies official in Odisha Vigilance net over DA allegations

Odisha vigilance officials on Monday conducted simultaneous raids at multiple locations linked to a junior accountant, Rabindra Barik, of the Sundargarh Civil Supplies Department in connection with allegations of disproportionate assets.

The searches were carried out at his official workplace and rental residence in Sundargarh, as well as at several premises in Balasore, including residential and commercial properties, as part of a coordinated operation by the Balasore Vigilance Division.

Raids Following Complaints and Confidential Inquiry

Confirming the action, Vigilance DSP BK Swain said Ravindra Barik, a native of Balasore and serving as a junior accountant in the Civil Supplies Department, was under scrutiny following complaints received from Balasore and Baripada. 

“Based on the complaints, a confidential inquiry was initiated. After preliminary verification, raids were conducted today at his residence and office in Sundargarh, as well as at multiple properties in Balasore,” Swain said.

He added that Barik served in various districts, including Balasore, Mayurbhanj, Baripada and Sundargarh, during his nearly 20-year-long service career. “The extent of assets and income will be established only after a detailed investigation,” the DSP said.

Properties and Financial Records Under Examination

As part of the operation, Vigilance teams also raided a kalyan mandap, a gymnasium and an office reportedly operated by Barik’s son in Balasore. Officials said that while no large amount of cash was recovered from Barik’s residence, several land-related documents were seized and were under verification at the time of reporting.

Bank passbooks, property documents and other financial records were also taken into custody for examination. A team of technical experts was called to assess the expenditure incurred on the construction of the properties that were searched.

Officials said the investigation is underway and further action will depend on the findings.