Major Probe Uncovers Alleged Fund Misappropriation in Jajpur Panchayats
Vigilance raid Odisha
A massive crackdown on the ongoing LED street light scam was conducted by the Odisha Vigilance Department in Jajpur district. Following which, the Vigilance department officials arrested three contractors in connection with the scam.
SP (Vigilance), Additional Vigilance SP Anupama Mohapatra said. Besides, raids were also conducted in Dasarathpur block. Vigilance officials arrested contractor Dharanidhar Sahu and interrogated many people.
In addition to that, Vigilance officials raided eight Panchayats at one go. They are namely, Chitalo, Akarpada, Khandara, Taliha, Bihari, Rahasoi, Birajapur, and Biruha.
During the raid, officials confiscated vital papers and records related to the projects. Investigations were carried out regarding irregularities in LED street light installation projects.
Before this, authorities launched these projects in the 2021-22 and 2022-23 financial years. The projects had been launched in 35 panchayats in Dasarathpur block. The money for the project had come from.
As per the guidelines of the project, it was mandatory for the contractors to install the meters, cables, MCCBs, hooks, sensor clamps, and photo switch timers. Nevertheless, the investigators found some signs that the contractors did not do the work according to the guidelines.
Furthermore, the officials of the Vigilance found some signs of violation of the terms of the tender and no use of the necessary materials. There are also signs that some fake bills were submitted.
This is why the authorities have accused large-scale theft of government money. The Vigilance Department is continuing its investigation to know about the scam in detail.
In this regard, a team headed by Vigilance DSP Trilochan Sethi conducted the probe. The officers from the department of electricity and revenue administration also helped with the investigation.
Vigilance raid Odisha
