Baripada: A controversy has erupted in Mayurbhanj district over the cancellation of a transfer order of Deputy Collector Mamtaj Maharana, an OAS officer. Maharana staged a sit-in protest on the veranda of the District Collector’s office, claiming that her joining report was rejected without any explanation.
Maharana received a transfer order to Baripada on December 10, 2025, but the District Collector rejected the order on December 22 without assigning her to any post.
According to reports, the move was linked to a previous case of embezzlement of government funds, in which she was allegedly involved as the Badasahi Tehsildar.
The case, related to sand mining, is currently under investigation and in the National Green Tribunal (NGT). The District Collector has reportedly written to the State Revenue Department, stating that Maharana’s assignment could affect the investigation.
Maharana, however, denied any wrongdoing and demanded clarity and justice. “This is not just about a transfer; it’s about transparency and the rights of an officer,” she told the media.
