Odisha Vigilance arrests ‘crorepati’ ITDA engineer in DA charges

Odisha Vigilance arrested Baikuntha Nath Behera, Assistant Executive Engineer (AEE), ITDA, Baliguda in Kandhamal district, in connection with a disproportionate assets case. He will be forwarded to the Court of the Special Judge, Vigilance, Bhubaneswar on Sunday. The arrest followed searches conducted at properties linked to the engineer, during which Vigilance officials allegedly detected assets disproportionate to his known sources of income. Officials said Behera failed to provide a satisfactory explanation for the assets unearthed during the investigation. Assets Unearthed During Searches According to Vigilance, Behera was found in possession of five multi-storeyed buildings with a total built-up area of over 20,000 square feet. Of these, four are described as palatial buildings located in Bhubaneswar. The searches also revealed 14 high-value plots, cash exceeding Rs 2.04 crore, approximately 500 grams of gold, and deposits worth Rs 45 lakh, among other assets. Officials further stated that one more locker being operated in the name of Behera’s spouse is yet to be opened. Vigilance Case Registered In connection with the findings, Vigilance Cell Police Station Case No. 4/2026 has been registered against Baikuntha Nath Behera under the provisions of the Prevention of Corruption Act, 2018. Also Read: Rs 2 crore cash, over 300 grams gold found in bank lockers during vigilance raids on ITDA Engineer The investigation is currently underway, and Vigilance officials are continuing to examine the assets and financial records linked to the accused officer.