Odisha Panchayat Officer Arrested for Embezzling Over ₹3 Crore for Online Gaming

In a shocking case of financial misappropriation, the Odisha Vigilance Department has arrested a suspended Panchayat Executive Officer (PEO) from Kalahandi district for allegedly embezzling over ₹3 crore of government funds to fuel his online gaming and cricket betting addiction.

The accused, identified as Debananda Sagar, was found to have misappropriated ₹3.26 crore from Talnegi and Podapadar gram panchayats under Thuamal-Rampur block by abusing his official position and forging the signature of the sarpanch.

According to officials, Sagar had been under suspicion for some time, and an investigation revealed large-scale financial irregularities in the panchayat accounts. Following the findings, he was suspended and subsequently arrested by the vigilance team.

Authorities have also launched a detailed probe into the case to ascertain whether more individuals were involved in the fraudulent activities. The state vigilance has also frozen his bank accounts and is tracing the misappropriated funds.

This incident highlights the rising concern of government officials misusing public funds for online gambling and betting. The Odisha Vigilance has assured strict action against those indulging in corrupt practices and has urged the public to report any suspicious financial activities in government offices.

Further investigations are underway, and more legal action is expected against the accused.