In a major crackdown on corruption, the Odisha Vigilance Department has arrested Bhismaraj Meher, former Panchayat Executive Officer (PEO) of Ranimunda Gram Panchayat, and Tukaram Hial, the current Sarpanch, for allegedly embezzling ₹14,24,722 in government funds.
The funds were allocated under the 15th CFC and 6th SFC grants to execute developmental works, including drinking water supply and government construction projects in the 2022-23 and 2023-24 financial years. However, according to Odisha Vigilance, these projects were not carried out, leading to suspicions of financial misappropriation.
A thorough verification was conducted by Odisha Vigilance, revealing significant discrepancies in fund utilization. As a result, the accused duo was arrested and forwarded to the Hon’ble Court of Spl. Judge, Vigilance, Bhawanipatna.
A case has been registered under Koraput Vigilance PS Case No. 15/4.4.2025 under sections 13(2) r/w 13(1) of the Prevention of Corruption (Amendment) Act, 2018, along with 316(5)/6 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS). The investigation is ongoing, and further details are expected to emerge in the coming days,
