Bhubaneswar, Feb 22: The Odisha Vigilance Department has arrested a Panchayat Executive Officer (PEO) and his brother on charges of misappropriating ₹7,20,981 in government funds. The accused have been identified as Satyabrata Baral, PEO of Ghuchaguda Gram Panchayat under Sinapali block of Nuapada district, and his brother Uttam Baral.

According to an official press release, the two conspired with Bijaylaxmi Baral, Sarpanch of Kureswar Gram Panchayat, and Barun Das, PEO of Kureswar Gram Panchayat, to misappropriate funds meant for installing high mast lights, repairing street lights, and supplying gym equipment for the 2024-2025 financial year.

Investigations revealed that ₹4.2 lakh was credited to the Baral brothers’ accounts, while ₹3,00,981 was deposited into Barun Das's account. A case (Koraput Vigilance PS Case No. 4/21.02.2025) has been registered under the Prevention of Corruption (Amendment) Act, 2018, and other relevant sections.

The Vigilance Department confirmed that further investigation is ongoing to uncover additional irregularities and hold all culprits accountable.

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