Berhampur: A major financial irregularity involving alleged forgery of digital signatures and misappropriation of over ₹2.5 crore has come to light at a community health centre in Ganjam district, prompting the suspension of six employees and recommendation of criminal and vigilance action.
The scam pertains to the illegal withdrawal of arrears funds between 2021 and 2025, during which a total of ₹2,51,14,662 was allegedly siphoned off. According to official sources, funds were fraudulently transferred into the accounts of employees under the pretext of pending arrears and subsequently withdrawn.
The irregularities first surfaced in January this year following a written complaint from the Kodala Treasury. After being alerted by the Kodala Community Health Centre (CHC), district authorities initiated a probe. A three-member inquiry team led by ADMO Dr. Biswambar Behera conducted a detailed investigation, which uncovered the full extent of the fraud.
Preliminary findings indicate that digital signatures of the health centre’s Superintendent were forged to facilitate the illegal transactions. The Superintendent, Dr. Aditya Prasad Sahu, has claimed he had no knowledge of the misuse. However, departmental proceedings have been initiated against him.
Based on the inquiry report submitted to the Health Department, seven employees were initially identified as being involved. Following verification, all seven were placed under suspension. One of the accused, Debendra Nath Gaud, has since passed away.
The other suspended personnel include Multi-Purpose Health Workers Bharti Pradhan and Annapurna Sahu, Attendant Gopal Nahak and Ramchandra Mallik, Nursing Officer Sarojini Behera, and Senior Assistant Jatin Kumar Bhuyan.
Authorities have recommended registration of criminal cases against the accused for misappropriation of government funds. A vigilance investigation has also been proposed to further probe the matter and fix accountability.
Further action is expected based on the findings of the vigilance inquiry.
