Ganjam, Aug 17: Pradeep Kumar Mishra, forest ranger of Buguda in Ganjam district, is facing serious allegations after a video of him accepting a bribe from timber traders went viral on social media.

The footage, reportedly recorded inside the Buguda Forest Range Office, shows Mishra counting Rs 500 denomination notes handed to him by an individual identified as part of the timber mafia.

According to reports, the bribe was allegedly paid to secure the release of a seized timber-laden vehicle without departmental interference.

The incident has raised serious concerns about corruption within the Forest Department.

While no official statement has yet been released by senior forest authorities, an investigation and disciplinary action is likely to be taken against the accused officer.

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