In a significant escalation of the high-profile probe into missing files from the Chief Minister’s Office, Capital Police Station has issued formal summons to two senior former officials.
Manoj Kumar Mishra, former IT Secretary to the Odisha Government, and Rajesh Verma, retired IAS officer and current Chairperson of the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM), have been asked to appear personally before the Investigating Officer on July 22, 2026, at 11:00 AM at Capital Police Station, Bhubaneswar.
The notices, issued under Section 179 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), 2023, relate to Capital P.S. Case No. 460 registered on June 10, 2026, under sections 305/316(2)/238(c)/241/61(2)(b) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS). Both officials have been directed to bring all relevant documents, records, electronic devices, and materials in their possession.
The disappearance of two extremely sensitive, commission-related files from the CMO came to light on June 10, 2026. These files contained critical information linked to important state government decisions and ongoing investigations. The incident triggered serious questions about security lapses at the highest administrative levels and prompted wide-ranging discussions within the government.
A special investigation team, headed by an Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) and comprising two Additional Inspectors-in-Charge (IICs), has been formed to handle the sensitive case, which includes charges of criminal conspiracy. Police have already questioned officials, including the Joint Secretary of the Home Department, and are examining every angle to determine when the files went missing and who was involved.
Investigating Officer Bipin Bihari Hota, Additional IIC of Capital Police Station, issued the summons. Both notices explicitly state that the individuals “appear to be acquainted with the facts and circumstances of the said case” and must extend full cooperation.
