Sambalpur: Odisha Vigilance conducted a raid on properties associated with General Manager of Tata Power Western Odisha Distribution Limited (TPWODL), Burla Corporate Office in Sambalpur on Friday morning on the allegation of accumulation of disproportionate assets.
The General Manager has been identified as Santosh Kumar Darjee.
Simultaneous searches are being conducted by Odisha Vigilance led by one Deputy superintendent of police (DSP), six Inspectors, two Assistant Sub Inspectors (ASIs), and other staff.
Based on a piece of reliable information, the vigilance sleuths have conducted raids at three places in Sambalpur and Bargarh districts on the strength of search warrants issued by Special Judge, Vigilance, Sambalpur.
- Residential building located at Pradhanpara, Sambalpur
- Office of Darjee at Burla Corporate Office, Sambalpur
- Native village at Atabira, Bargarh
Till the last reports came in, the vigilance unearthed cash over Rs 7, 20, 360/- from the residence of TPWODL General Manager which is likely to increase. It is suspected that Darjee has purchased assets outside the State from ill-gotten money amassed in Odisha. Other assets unearthed so far include:
- 1 Duplex house in the name of his spouse in prime area of Raipur at Sector 12, Atal Nagar, Raipur has been unearthed.
- A palatial double-storeyed Building at Sambalpur.
- 2 plots in prime area of Ainthapali, Sambalpur.
- 2 four wheelers (Volkswagen and Hyundai Verna) worth approx Rs 20.59 Lakh
- 2 two wheelers ( Yamaha R-3, Suzuki Burgman Street) worth approx Rs 4.61 Lakh
- 2 Lockers at Axis and HDFC Bank including Bank deposits are under verification.
Meanwhile, CEO of TPWODL, Gajanan Kale, said, “We are looking into the case and are in touch with the State Vigilance Department. The bribery charge against the said GM is a matter of serious concern for us and against the work ethics of TPWODL. We have already initiated an internal inquiry through a high-level committee comprising of senior most officials. A strict action will be taken against the erring in line with service rules and regulations.”
Further search is underway and details awaited.
Ms Kalinga