In a significant case of embezzlement, Khetramohan Nayak, the Panchayat Executive Officer (PEO) of Radhadeipur panchayat in Ganjam district, Odisha, was arrested on Friday by Vigilance officials for allegedly misappropriating Rs43 lakh of government funds. The funds were siphoned from multiple government accounts, including the Central Finance Commission, State Finance Commission, public distribution system, and old age pension accounts.
Investigations revealed that Nayak forged the sarpanch’s signatures to withdraw money through cheques from the panchayat’s accounts, which were maintained at Axis Bank and Canara Bank in Digapahandi. Shockingly, he used the ill-gotten money to indulge in cricket betting and gaming apps, according to a Vigilance officer.
The preliminary probe indicated that Nayak had been embezzling funds since his appointment as PEO in July 2024. A case has been registered against him by Berhampur Vigilance, and further investigations are underway.
