Jeypore (Koraput): The former Inspector-in-Charge (IIC) of Astaranga Police Station in Puri district, has surrendered before the District and Sessions Court in Koraput district. He had been suspended earlier for dereliction of duty. This comes after Rajesh Baliarsingh, had been absconding for nearly six months following serious allegations of misconduct and links to ganja (cannabis) smuggling.
Baliarsingh, who previously served as a Sub-Inspector at Jeypore Town Police Station in Koraput district, faced accusations of cooperating with ganja smugglers during his tenure there. Reports indicate he allegedly used his official vehicle to aid smuggling activities and shielded mafia elements involved in the illicit trade.
The controversy escalated in August 2025 when Odisha Director General of Police (DGP) suspended him for gross misconduct and dereliction of duty. A Koraput police team summoned him for questioning in Bhubaneswar, where he was interrogated at the Capital Police Station. During this process, Baliarsingh reportedly escaped from custody, prompting a statewide search and a raid on his official residence.
The case involves charges related to his alleged involvement in protecting ganja trafficking networks.
