Bhubaneswar, Odisha : In a major anti-corruption verdict, the Hon’ble Special Judge, Vigilance, Balasore, convicted Sri Jhasaketan Pradhan, Former Asst. Civil Supplies Officer (Retired), Balasore, and Sri Bijay Kumar Nayak, Former Store-cum-Godown Assistant (Retired), Rice Receiving Centre (RRC), Balasore.
The court found both officials guilty under Odisha Vigilance U/s 13(2) r/w 13(1)(d) of PC Act, 1988/409/120-B IPC for misappropriating 1,266.26 quintals of rice from the RRC, Balasore. They diverted rice meant for the Public Distribution System (PDS), abusing their official positions and conspiring together, which caused significant loss to the government.
The judge sentenced each convict to three years of rigorous imprisonment and imposed fines. Following the verdict, Odisha Vigilance will ask the competent authority to stop the pensions of Jhasaketan Pradhan and Bijay Kumar Nayak.
The Odisha government has demonstrated strong commitment to fighting corruption in the PDS and holding officials accountable. This conviction sends a clear message that misappropriation of public resources will face strict punishment.
The case underscores the continuous vigilance and enforcement measures taken by the state to protect essential commodities and prevent fraudulent practices.
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