The Odisha Vigilance today arrested Soumya Ranjan Kheti, former Principal of Odisha Adarsha Vidyalaya (OAV), Binika, for allegedly embezzling Rs 55,02,610 of government funds.
Officials said the misappropriation took place between the financial years 2021–22 and 2024–25, involving funds allocated under the Mid-Day Meal (MDM) scheme, Mo School Abhijan, and Girls’ Hostel contingencies. Kheti, who assumed charge as principal on September 29, 2021, allegedly abused his official position to divert money meant for student welfare and infrastructure development.
Following preliminary inquiries, Odisha Vigilance registered a case under Sambalpur Vigilance P.S. Case No. 19/2025, invoking provisions of the Prevention of Corruption (Amendment) Act, 2018 and relevant sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS). Kheti is currently in custody and being interrogated to uncover the full extent of the irregularities.
The arrest has triggered calls for greater transparency and stricter oversight in the management of educational institutions across Odisha to prevent misuse of public funds.
