Odisha Vigilance has arrested Bhubanananda Sahu, ORS, Additional Tahasildar of Maneswar Tahasil, Sambalpur district, for demanding and accepting a bribe of ₹6,000 from a complainant.
The bribe was sought in exchange for converting agricultural land to non-agricultural (homestead) use and issuing the Record of Rights (ROR).
Following complaints of harassment, vigilance authorities set up a sting operation, catching Sahu red-handed while receiving the bribe. Sources reveal that he had initially demanded ₹10,000 but settled for ₹6,000 after negotiation. The entire amount has been recovered and seized by officials.
Simultaneous searches are being conducted at three locations linked to the accused to investigate potential disproportionate assets. A case has been registered under the Prevention of Corruption (Amendment) Act, 2018, and further investigations are underway.
This arrest underscores Odisha Vigilance’s commitment to fighting corruption and ensuring transparency in land administration. The case has sparked discussions on the integrity of bureaucratic processes and the need for stricter enforcement.
