Bhadrak, Oct 20: A serious case of financial irregularity has emerged from the Palsahi Seva Samabaya Samiti (Cooperative Society) under Dhamnagar block in Bhadrak district, where ₹2.5 lakh was allegedly withdrawn fraudulently in the name of a farmer.

Ranjit Panda, a resident of Kathamunda village under Raipur Panchayat and a member of the cooperative society, has accused the former secretary of misusing his documents to siphon off funds.

According to Panda, he had taken a loan of ₹1,42,500 from the society in 2023. At the time, the secretary had retained his loan account details, passbook, and a signed blank cheque.

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Despite repeated visits to the society office requesting his documents, Panda claims he was denied access. Recently, upon retrieving his account records and the cheque, he discovered that a loan of ₹2.5 lakh had been withdrawn in his name without his knowledge.

Now, his total outstanding loan stands at ₹4,52,700, leaving him deeply worried and financially burdened. Panda has demanded a thorough investigation into the matter and urged authorities to take strict action against those responsible.

The incident has sparked concern among other members of the cooperative society, raising questions about transparency and accountability in its operations.

This case highlights the vulnerability of rural farmers in cooperative systems and the urgent need for reforms to protect their interests. As the matter gains attention, pressure is mounting on the administration to intervene and ensure justice for the affected farmer.