PPE Scam In Odisha: Two IAS Officers Appear Before Lokayukta

Bhubaneswar: Two senior IAS officers on Monday appeared before the Lokayukta in connection with the alleged scam in the purchase of PPE kits in Odisha.

The two IAS officers — the former head of the state-level purchase committee, Hemant Sharma, and the Managing Director of Odisha State Medical Corporation Ltd (OSMCL), Yamini Sarangi — submitted their written replies to the Lokayukta.

After the hearing, Sharma and Sarangi refused to speak to the media about their submissions.

Following an allegation by the Odisha Congress, the state government on June 5 removed Sharma from the supervision of the procurement of all essential pharmaceutical goods and other equipment required to tackle COVID-19.

“His additional charge related to the procurement of COVID-19 equipment has been rescinded,” a notification issued by General Administration and Public Grievance Department said.

Also Read; Senior Odisha IAS Officer Removed From COVID-19 Equipment Purchase Job

Also Read: PPE Purchase Scam: Complaint Lodged Against IAS Officer Hemant Sharma