Vigilance Crackdown / Former BDA Section Officer Convicted in Bribery Case

Bhubaneswar, Aug 14: Odisha Vigilance has secured the conviction of Tarini Charan Das, former Section Officer of the Allotment Section, Bhubaneswar Development Authority (BDA), in a bribery case, officials said on Friday.

Das, who had retired from service, was charge‑sheeted under Section 13(2) read with 13(1)(d) and Section 7 of the Prevention of Corruption Act, 1988. The case pertained to his demand and acceptance of a bribe of Rs5,000 from an applicant seeking transfer of ownership of a house.

On Thursday, the Additional Special Judge, Vigilance, Bhubaneswar found him guilty and sentenced him to three years of rigorous imprisonment along with a fine. He was taken into custody immediately to serve his sentence.

Officials said the conviction underscores Odisha Vigilance’s continuing efforts to curb corruption in public offices and ensure accountability in administrative processes. The case highlights how even routine transactions, such as property ownership transfers, can be vulnerable to exploitation by officials misusing their authority.

Following the conviction, Vigilance officials said that they will move the competent authority to stop Das’ pension. This step reflects the state’s firm stance that those found guilty of corruption should not continue to benefit from government service entitlements.
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The prosecution was pursued diligently, reinforcing the broader message that corruption will not be tolerated and that offenders will face both legal and financial consequences. Vigilance officials emphasized that such convictions serve as deterrents and strengthen public trust in governance.

With this judgment, Odisha Vigilance has added another case to its record of successful prosecutions, reaffirming its commitment to transparency and integrity in public service.