Bhubaneswar: Stepping up the probe into the Odisha textbook error case, the Crime Branch has put over 250 officials and employees under close scrutiny while examining the role of key institutions.
Noting that the probe is still at a preliminary stage, officials said the agency needs to conduct a detailed examination of the entire process, from manuscript preparation to printing and distribution.
Investigators are scrutinising every stage of the textbook production process using technical and forensic methods to identify those responsible for the alleged lapses, according to Crime Branch Director General Binaytosh Mishra.
Officials said a list of nearly 250 officials and employees has been prepared for investigation. The probe covers several key institutions, including the Directorate of Teacher Education, the State Council of Educational Research and Training (SCERT), the Textbook Preparation and Marketing (TBPM) wing, and the Odisha School Education Programme Authority (OSEPA).
The probe agency is examining whether the errors were committed knowingly or due to negligence and are assessing the extent to which the mistakes may have affected students’ academic interests. Individuals found responsible could be summoned for questioning once sufficient evidence is collected, officials said.
The investigation has also uncovered suspected financial irregularities. While around Rs 175 crore was reportedly spent on paper procurement, printing, committee expenses, and transportation, the Crime Branch has found preliminary evidence suggesting financial irregularities worth nearly Rs 25 crore.
Sources said five officials currently under suspicion are likely to be called for questioning as the financial aspect of the case comes under greater scrutiny.
The case has already led to major administrative action. Former SCERT Director Manoj Padhi has been arrested, while three Assistant Directors have been suspended. Disciplinary proceedings have also been initiated against six other Assistant Directors.
Meanwhile, SCERT Assistant Directors Pralipta Mishra, Dillip Kumar Sahu, Kishore Kumar Kar, and Bharati Tudu have approached the High Court seeking anticipatory bail.
