Odisha Vigilance raids PEO's properties in Baragada district

The Odisha Vigilance department conducted simultaneous raids across six locations in the Baragada district targeting Kartikeswar Behera, a Panchayat Executive Officer (PEO). The investigation follows allegations that Behera possesses assets disproportionate to his known sources of income.

Behera, who serves as the PEO of Katabhal Gram Panchayat and holds additional charges for the Firingimal and Gourenmunda Gram Panchayats, is under scrutiny for vast unaccounted wealth. During the searches, authorities unearthed several significant assets, including a double-storeyed residential building, a four-storeyed building under construction, a market complex, and a godown. Additionally, officials identified 30 plots of land and approximately Rs 2,98,177 in cash.

A high-level team, including multiple Deputy Superintendents of Police and inspectors, is currently verifying property documents, bank accounts, and financial records linked to Behera and his family. The Vigilance Technical Wing is performing measurements and valuations of the seized properties.