The Panchayat Executive Officer (PEO) of Laudigaon in Odisha’s Ganjam district has been arrested on charges of misappropriating funds amounting to Rs 1.37 crore. 

The accused PEO, Sameer Mishra, who previously served as the executive officer of Keluapalli under Rangeilunda block, is accused of embezzling government funds by forging the signatures of Sarpanchs from two Panchayats.

Forgery of Sarpanch Signatures Alleged

According to sources, the scam came to light following reports of unauthorised fund withdrawals from government accounts. 

Mishra allegedly accessed and withdrew funds by submitting documents bearing fake signatures of the respective Sarpanchs. The misappropriated amount reportedly includes funds meant for developmental activities and welfare schemes in the panchayats, said sources.

Scam Unearthed After BDO-Level Inquiry

The matter was initially investigated by the Block Development Officer (BDO) of Rangeilunda after receiving reports of irregularities in the funds of the Panchayat. 

Following the completion of the inquiry, the BDO lodged a formal complaint with the local police. Subsequent police investigation confirmed fraudulent financial activity totaling to Rs 1.37 crore.

Further Irregularities Detected in Laudigaon Panchayat

In addition to the alleged fraud during his tenure at Keluapalli, further accusations have surfaced involving fund misappropriation in Laudigaon gram panchayat, where Mishra is currently posted.

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Police Arrest and Ongoing Investigation

Following the investigation, Ganjam Police have arrested Mishra and are continuing further inquiries. However, the specific grounds on which the funds were spent are yet to be ascertained.