BHUBNESWAR: The Odisha Vigilance Department has recovered around Rs 2.1 crore in cash during simultaneous raids at seven locations linked to Baikuntha Nath Sarangi, chief engineer in the state’s Rural Development Department.The searches were carried out following allegations that Sarangi possessed assets disproportionate to his known sources of income. In a dramatic sequence of events, officials say Sarangi attempted to dispose of bundles of Rs 500 notes by throwing them out of the window of his flat in Bhubaneswar as vigilance officers arrived.
Poll
Do you think stricter monitoring can reduce corruption among government officials?
The raids were conducted by teams comprising eight deputy superintendents of Police, 12 inspectors and six assistant sub-inspectors. They acted on search warrants issued by the Special Judge, Vigilance, Angul.
Properties searched included a double-storied house in Karadagadia (Angul), a flat in Dumduma (Bhubaneswar) and another in Siula (Pipili, Puri), among others. Of the total cash recovered, Rs 1 crore was seized from Sarangi’s Bhubaneswar flat and Rs 1.1 crore was found at his residence in Angul. Officials used currency counting machines to confirm the amounts. The investigation is ongoing, and further details are awaited.
