Bhubaneswar, May 14: Serious allegations of a nexus between police personnel and ganja mafia in Odisha’s Bargarh district have triggered major departmental action following the seizure of more than 19 quintals of ganja in the Jharbandh area.

The incident has created a sensation across Bargarh town, with widespread discussions and concerns over the alleged involvement of police officials in illegal narcotics operations. The seizure has also intensified scrutiny over the functioning of local law enforcement in the region.

Acting swiftly in connection with the case, the district police administration suspended two police personnel and dismissed a Home Guard from service. Assistant Sub-Inspector (ASI) Kaushik Sahu and constable Chittaranjan Panda have been placed under suspension, while Home Guard Debarchan Niali has been removed from service over their alleged links to the case.

In another significant development, Jharbandh Police Station Inspector-in-Charge (IIC) Shukra Madhi has been transferred to the district headquarters. He has been replaced by Bargarh Cyber Police Station IIC Sanjay Kumar Parida. Authorities have also initiated a departmental inquiry against Madhi to examine his alleged role and possible lapses in handling illegal ganja operations in the area.

Police officials said further investigation is underway to uncover the full extent of the alleged nexus and identify any additional persons involved. The action has been viewed as an attempt by the department to send a strong message against corruption and complicity in narcotics-related crimes.

The incident has once again highlighted growing concerns over the illegal ganja trade operating in parts of western Odisha.

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