Jatani (Khordha), Mar 25: The vigilance sleuths have unearthed an extraordinary array of cash, gold, and property during an extensive raid on Tuesday on the residences and offices of Suryamani Pattajoshi, Executive Officer of Jatani Municipality.

The operation, covering locations in Bhubaneswar, Jatani, Berhampur, and Ganjam, unveiled staggering amounts of undeclared wealth including Rs 17 lakh in cash, 150 grams of gold ornaments, two flats, two multi storeyed buildings, advance Rs 56 lakh paid for a 4.5 BHK Flat in Bhubaneswar, and 11 plots.

In addition, a four wheeler, three two wheelers were also unearthed. With over 20 bank accounts, postal deposits, insurance and even a locker at an SBI branch in Berhampur, Pattajoshi’s assets have left investigators and the public astounded.

The raid, conducted by a team including nine DSPs, four inspectors, and thirteen ASIs, is part of Odisha’s broader crackdown on corruption.

Notable data provided by CM Majhi

In a written replay, Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi had stated that 159 officials have lost their jobs in the past five years due to misconduct, including allegations of disproportionate assets and bribery.

Out of 159 officials, 120 government officers and employees have been dismissed from their jobs, while the remaining 39 individuals have been compelled to take retirement. A total of Rs 59,47,84,981 has been confiscated.

CM Majhi also revealed that from 2014 to February 2025, as many as 3,623 corruption prevention cases were registered in vigilance. Out of these, 2,553 cases have been resolved, with 939 individuals being found guilty. In 1,053 cases, the accused were acquitted.

This discovery raises questions about accountability and governance under the previous government, led by Naveen Patnaik, and highlights the current BJP government’s intensified efforts to address systemic corruption.

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