PEO Arrested for Embezzling Rs 12.87 Lakh SFC Fund in Kandhamal

The Odisha Vigilance Directorate has arrested Binayak Nayak, the former Panchayat Executive Officer (PEO) of Kuerimandu Gram Panchayat under Phiringia Block in Kandhamal District.

Nayak, who is currently attached to the Phiringia Block Office, faces charges of misappropriating government funds amounting to Rs 12,87,201 from the State Finance Commission (SFC) Fund.

The embezzlement allegedly took place between February and March 2025, during which Nayak is accused of siphoning off the funds without executing any development works in the gram panchayat.

The arrest follows a thorough investigation by the Vigilance team, leading to the registration of Berhampur Vigilance PS Case No. 18/2025. The case has been filed under relevant sections of the Prevention of Corruption (Amendment) Act, 2018, and the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS).

Nayak is being forwarded to the Hon’ble Court of Special Judge, Vigilance, Phulbani, for further judicial proceedings.

Authorities have confirmed that the investigation is ongoing, with efforts to uncover any additional irregularities or accomplices involved in the scheme.