Probe Into V K Pandian’s Chopper Rides In Progress: Odisha Minister

Bhubaneswar: The Odisha government has initiated an investigation into the helicopter visits undertaken by former 5T chairman V K Pandian and expenses incurred in his tours across the state.

Sharing this information, Transport Minister Bibhuti Bhushan Jena told media on Friday that a probe into the state-wide chopper tours of the former IAS officer before the recent elections is in progress.

The matter will be thoroughly probed and appropriate action will be taken if any irregularity is found, he said, adding that misappropriation of government money in any form is not acceptable at all.

Asserting that the BJP government has been vigilant with a focus on ensuring zero corruption, the Minister said that there is a set of rules regarding who all are entitled to avail helicopter facility and action can be taken against anyone found flouting these clearly laid down norms.

The BJP had earlier alleged that government funds to the tune of Rs 500 crore had been spent for Pandian’s tours across the state. It was also alleged that helipads were constructed with government funds in every block for the visit of the ex-bureaucrat.