Odisha Engineer Under Scanner: Rs 2 Crore Cash, 5 Buildings And 14 Plots Found In Vigilance Raid

Bhubaneswar: A case of alleged huge wealth of a government engineer has come to light in the raid of Odisha Vigilance Department. During the operation at the premises of Assistant Executive Engineer Baikunth Nath Behera posted in Kandhamal district, officials recovered more than Rs 2 crore in cash. Apart from this, documents related to many buildings, plots and valuables have also been recovered. The investigation team was also surprised to see the size of the recovery.

Where did the search take place?

The Vigilance Department took action at several locations simultaneously. Searches were conducted at residences and premises located in Bhubaneswar, Kandhamal and other districts. The action, which started in the morning, continued till late evening. Officials collected documents from homes, offices and other premises. During the investigation, records related to many bank accounts and investments also came to light.

What was found in the raid?

According to the investigation team, during the search, apart from crores of rupees in cash, information about five buildings and more than a dozen plots was found. Gold jewelery and other valuable items have also been recovered. Officials say that the verification of all the documents has not been completed yet, so the actual value of the properties may increase further.

How did the scope of property increase?

Preliminary investigation has revealed that the engineer had started government service with a relatively low salary. The range of assets increased between postings to various posts over the years. Now the investigating agencies are trying to find out what is the difference between the acquired assets and the declared income.

Why did it take so long to count cash?

The amount of cash recovered was so large that the help of machines had to be taken to count it. During the operation, bundles of notes were found from different places. The officials also got the entire process videographed. Apart from cash, bank lockers and financial investments are also being investigated.

Are there properties in the names of relatives too?

The investigating agencies have found some documents that indicate that many properties may be in the names of other family members or close people. Now the authenticity of these documents and ownership of the properties are being investigated. Officials believe that more information may emerge as the investigation progresses.

What will happen next now?

The Vigilance Department is matching all the documents, bank records and investment related information. If the source of wealth does not match the legitimate income then a disproportionate assets case can be filed against the engineer. At present, the report of the entire action is being prepared and investigation is going on.