The Odisha Crime Branch on Friday intensified its investigation into the alleged textbook irregularities in government schools by conducting a search at the headquarters of the Odisha School Education Programme Authority (OSEPA) in Bhubaneswar.
A five-member Crime Branch team visited the OSEPA office to examine records and gather information related to the preparation, review and publication of school textbooks.
Crime Branch Examines Records
The investigating team, led by DSP Narendra Behera, scrutinised official documents linked to the development and approval of government school textbooks.
Officials sought details about the editorial and publication process as part of efforts to determine whether prescribed procedures were followed before the books were printed and distributed to schools.
The visit marks another significant step in the ongoing investigation into the alleged lapses in textbook preparation.
OSEPA Deputy Director Questioned
During the inquiry, four members of the Crime Branch team questioned OSEPA Deputy Director Itishree Nayak regarding the procedures adopted during the drafting, review and approval of the textbooks.
Investigators are examining the roles of officials associated with the publication process and verifying whether established guidelines and quality checks were properly followed.
The questioning forms part of the agency’s broader effort to identify accountability and collect documentary evidence in the case.
Probe Expands Into Textbook Publication Process
The Crime Branch is continuing its investigation by reviewing official records and examining the responsibilities of individuals involved in the preparation and publication of government school textbooks.
Officials indicated that further rounds of questioning and document verification are expected as the investigation progresses.
Former SCERT Director Arrested Earlier
The latest development comes days after the Crime Branch arrested former SCERT Director Manoj Padhi in connection with the alleged large-scale irregularities in the preparation and publication of government school textbooks.
Padhi was taken into custody after being questioned on multiple aspects of the textbook development and approval process. Investigators are continuing to examine the circumstances surrounding the alleged irregularities.
The investigation remains ongoing, and authorities are expected to take further action based on the evidence collected during the probe.
