Subarnapur, Odisha : Odisha Vigilance arrest has been made in Subarnapur as officials took into custody Sri Soumya Ranjan Kheti, former Principal of Odisha Adarsha Vidyalaya (OAV), Binika, for allegedly embezzling government funds worth Rs 55,02,610.
According to officials, Kheti misappropriated funds allocated under the Mid-Day Meal (MDM) scheme, Mo School Abhijan, and Girls’ Hostel Fund contingencies during the financial years 2021–22 to 2024–25. He allegedly abused his official position to divert the money for personal gain.
Kheti was appointed as Principal of OAV Binika on 29 September 2021. Following credible inputs about irregularities, Odisha Vigilance conducted an inquiry which confirmed the misappropriation. Subsequently, a case was registered at Sambalpur Vigilance Police Station (Case No. 19/2025) under relevant sections of the Prevention of Corruption (Amendment) Act, 2018 and the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS).
The ex-Principal has been taken into custody and is currently being interrogated to trace the misused funds and establish further details of the embezzlement. Vigilance sources confirmed that more leads are being pursued and additional assets linked to the accused may come under scrutiny.
Authorities have reiterated their commitment to strict action against corruption in the education sector to ensure proper utilization of government funds meant for students’ welfare.
