In a major anti-corruption development, the Odisha Vigilance has secured the conviction of two engineers in a corruption case linked to fund misappropriation in Sambalpur district.
The convicted individuals—Sadananda Pradhan, a retired Assistant Engineer from Maneswar Block, and Biranchi Narayan Dash, currently serving as Assistant Engineer at the Brutang Irrigation Project in Nayagarh—were found guilty by the Special Vigilance Court in Sambalpur.
Details of the Case
The case pertains to irregularities in a road improvement project executed under the MGNREGS during 2008–2009 in Maneswar Block of Sambalpur.
According to officials, the accused engineers were involved in misappropriating government funds by recording inflated measurements of work, leading to financial losses to the public exchequer.
The investigation was conducted under provisions of the Prevention of Corruption Act, 1988, along with relevant sections of the Indian Penal Code related to criminal breach of trust, forgery, and conspiracy.
Court Verdict and Sentence
The Hon’ble Special Judge, Vigilance, Sambalpur, convicted both officials and sentenced each of them to:
- Two years of rigorous imprisonment
- Imposition of monetary fine
The judgment marks a significant step in strengthening accountability in public works and governance.
Further Action by Vigilance
Following the conviction, the Odisha Vigilance has initiated further administrative action:
- Proposal to stop pension benefits of retired official Sadananda Pradhan
- Recommendation for dismissal from service of Biranchi Narayan Dash
These measures aim to reinforce zero tolerance toward corruption in government departments.
