The Odisha State Bar Council has suspended advocate Archana Nag, the prime accused in a high-profile extortion and blackmail scandal that rocked the state.
The decision was taken on Wednesday, effectively barring her from practicing law in any court across Odisha until the completion of disciplinary proceedings.
Violation of Bar Council Rules
In its order, the Bar Council noted that Nag failed to disclose the criminal cases pending against her at the time of enrolment. The council also pointed out that she made a false declaration by claiming she was unemployed, despite holding the position of Vice President in two corporate entities. These violations, officials said, amounted to professional misconduct and warranted immediate suspension.
Properties Attached by ED
Nag’s troubles deepened last week when the Enforcement Directorate (ED) attached her Bhubaneswar bungalow worth ₹3.4 crore, citing its alleged links to the proceeds of crime. Her father and sister have reportedly resisted eviction efforts after the property was sealed by authorities.
Multiple Criminal Cases Registered
Three criminal cases have been filed against Nag across various police stations in Odisha. She, along with her husband Jagabandhu Chand, was arrested by Bhubaneswar Police in October 2022. The charges against them include criminal conspiracy, extortion, and blackmail, following accusations that they coerced victims by threatening to release intimate recordings. Both Nag and Chand are currently out on bail.
No Immediate Reaction from Nag
Efforts to reach Archana Nag for a comment were unsuccessful. The Bar Council stated that she would be given an opportunity to present her case during the disciplinary proceedings.
