Bhubaneswar: Following allegations of negligence and irregularities in official duties, the Odisha government’s Cooperation Department has suspended Sanjay Kumar Tripathy, District Registrar of Cooperative Societies (DRCS), Subarnapur.

The suspension has been carried out under the provisions of the Odisha Civil Services Rules, 1962, through a government notification issued on March 31, 2026. Disciplinary proceedings have also been initiated against the officer for alleged lapses in duty and irregular functioning.

During the suspension period, Tripathy’s headquarters has been fixed at the DRCS office in Sambalpur, and he has been directed not to leave the headquarters without prior permission.

To ensure administrative work in Subarnapur district continues without disruption, the government has made immediate alternative arrangements. Bhawani Shankar Das, Assistant Registrar of Cooperative Societies (ARCS), Subarnapur Circle, has been given additional charge as DRCS, Subarnapur, until further orders.

The action follows allegations of irregularities in recruitment at a Primary Agricultural Cooperative Society (PACS) in Maradogucha under Tarbha block. Reports suggest illegal appointments were made, allegedly favouring family members of the PACS secretary.

Following complaints, the district administration conducted an inquiry, which led to the cancellation of the recruitment and suspension of the concerned PACS secretary. Based on further findings, the state government today initiated action against the DRCS officer as well.