Odisha man arrested for Rs 1 crore job fraud via political impersonation

Police in Odisha have arrested 42-year-old Jagannath Bahalia for allegedly posing as a personal assistant to senior political leaders to defraud job seekers of more than Rs 1 crore. Bahalia reportedly used photographs with prominent political figures to establish credibility and claim close connections to the Chief Minister, Deputy Chief Minister, and the Prime Minister’s personal secretary.

Investigators state that Bahalia targeted educated unemployed youths by promising government positions, including roles in the Railways and teaching sectors, in exchange for large sums of money. In several instances, he allegedly issued fake appointment letters and call letters to victims. Complaints regarding the fraud have been filed across the Bhadrak, Balasore, and Cuttack districts.

Bhadrak Town Police traced and arrested the suspect in Digha, West Bengal. During the investigation, officers recovered a diary containing details of significant financial transactions, along with documents and fake identity papers featuring the names and images of various ministers and their assistants.