Bhubaneswar, Sept 24: The Odisha Forest Department has initiated an internal investigation into the suicide of Sanjay Nayak, a 33-year-old forester working at the Jaring Hi-Tech Silviculture Nursery in Junagarh block, Kalahandi district. The probe follows allegations that the Divisional Forest Officer (DFO) of Rayagada's Research Wing may have been involved in his death.

Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (PCCF) Debidatta Biswal announced that a Chief Conservator of Forests (CCF)-ranked officer has been appointed to lead the investigation. Biswal stated that the inquiry was ordered after police found a suicide note left by Nayak, which mentioned DFO Debendra Behera.

The PCCF assured that prompt action is being taken, and the investigation report is expected soon. Strict action will follow if anyone is found responsible.

Sanjay Nayak was discovered hanging in his government quarters in Bhawanipatna last Wednesday. His suicide note, read by the police in the presence of family members, alleged that DFO Behera had repeatedly demanded bribes. Nayak claimed he had paid Rs 7 lakh last year and Rs 3.5 lakh during Ganesh Puja, along with installing an air conditioner and digging a bore well for the DFO.

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