Bhubaneswar: Lakshman Hembram, Assistant Executive Engineer posted at Harichandanpur in Keonjhar district, has been arrested by police for allegedly forging the signature of Odisha Assembly Deputy Speaker Bhawani Shankar Bhoi and using a fake letterhead to influence government employee transfers.
Hembram was brought to Bhubaneswar for questioning following his arrest. Another accused, Monalisha Behera, a Junior Engineer posted at Bansapal Block in Keonjhar district, is currently absconding.
Police have launched a manhunt to trace and arrest her. “We have arrested Lakshman Hembram, Assistant Executive Engineer posted at Harichandanpur. He is being forwarded to court. We are investigating others’ involvement in the document forgery case. He has been charged with forgery and cheating. We are trying to get more information from Hembram,” said Ramesh Chandra Bisoi, ACP, Zone 1, Bhubaneswar.
The case came to light after the Personal Secretary to the Deputy Speaker lodged a complaint with Capital Police, alleging misuse of Bhawani Shankar Bhoi’s name and the circulation of forged official communication. The fake letter reportedly carried the Deputy Speaker’s forged signature and was used to recommend transfers of government employees.
Police officials said the investigation is ongoing to uncover the full extent of the conspiracy, including the preparation and circulation of the forged documents, and to identify all individuals involved.
The accused have been booked under relevant sections for forgery and cheating. Further updates are expected as the probe progresses.
