Bhawanipatna: The Odisha Forest department has launched a departmental investigation into the suicide case of Sanjay Nayak (33), a forester at the Jaring Hi-Tech Silviculture Nursery under Junagarh block in Kalahandi district. The action comes in the wake of allegations that the Rayagada DFO (Research Wing) was involved in his death.
A Chief Conservator of Forests (CCF)-ranked officer has been assigned to investigate the matter, Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (PCCF) Debidatta Biswal informed. Biswal told the media that a departmental inquiry has been ordered after the police revealed that the suicide note left by the forester mentioned DFO Debendra Behera.
The PCCF emphasised that swift action is being taken, and a report is expected to be submitted soon. If the investigation finds anyone guilty, strict action will be taken.
It may be noted here that forester Sanjay Nayak was found hanging in his government quarters in Bhawanipatna on last Wednesday. In a suicide note left by him, there were mentions of several issues within the department. The police seized the note during the recovery of the body.
The note was read by the IIC of the Town police station in front of the Kalahandi SP In the presence of Sanjay’s family members, including his elder brother and complainant Rabi Narayan Nayak. In the note, Sanjay alleged that DFO Behera had repeatedly demanded bribes from him. Sanjay claimed to have paid Rs 7 lakh to him last year and another Rs 3.5 lakh during the Ganesh Puja. He also mentioned installing an air conditioner at the DFO’s house and digging a bore well for him.
