Odisha Vigilance arrested Ratnesh Kumar Pandey, Junior Engineer of Pattamundai Block in Kendrapara district, on December 16, 2025, for financial fraud and embezzlement of government funds.
Investigators revealed that Pandey misappropriated Gram Panchayat Developmental Funds during the 2023–24 financial year. He allegedly diverted money meant for the electrification of streetlights without executing the project.
During the probe, officers discovered that Pandey transferred Rs 9.70 lakh into his personal bank account at SBI, Pipili branch. Moreover, Vigilance officials confirmed that the investigation continues to trace additional evidence of misappropriation.
Consequently, Odisha Vigilance registered a case under Cuttack Vigilance PS Case No. 35/2025, invoking sections 13(2) read with 13(1)(a)/12 of the Prevention of Corruption Act, 2018, along with IPC sections 409 and 120-B.
Authorities forwarded Pandey to the Hon’ble Court of Special Judge, Vigilance, Cuttack. Meanwhile, Vigilance officials assured that further inquiries will determine the full extent of the financial irregularities.
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