Bhubaneswar: Odisha Vigilance has arrested Akrura Majhi, former Panchayat Executive Officer (PEO) of Saramuli Gram Panchayat under Daringbadi block in Kandhamal district, for allegedly misappropriating government funds amounting to over ₹53 lakh.

According to a press release issued by Odisha Vigilance, the case pertains to alleged embezzlement of ₹53,38,809, which was sanctioned under the 15th Central Finance Commission (CFC) and 5th State Finance Commission (SFC) grants. The misuse of funds took place between October 31, 2023, and November 18, 2024, during Majhi’s tenure as PEO.

The Vigilance verification revealed that Majhi did not execute the developmental works for which the funds were allotted. However, he falsely recorded their completion in official cash books and claimed full payment against the supposed projects, thereby causing significant financial loss to the government.

Following the investigation, Majhi was arrested and produced before the Special Judge, Vigilance, Phulbani.

The Berhampur Vigilance Police Station has registered a case under Berhampur Vigilance PS Case No. 8/18.06.2025 under relevant sections of the Prevention of Corruption (Amendment) Act, 2018 and Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS).

Further investigation is currently underway.