Sarpanch Fined Rs 1 Lakh For Violating COVID-19 Norms In Odisha’s Bargarh

Bargarh: A sarpanch in Bargarh district was fined Rs 1 lakh on Wednesday for allegedly violating COVID-19 guidelines.

The Block Development Officer (BDO) of Gaisilat, Niranjan Sa, said he imposed the fine on the sarapanch of Gaurenmunda panchayat, Malaba Sahu, for staging a gherao with around 150 villagers at the BDO office on Tuesday.

Sahu and the villagers were protesting against the alleged blackmarketing of kerosene.

The BDO said the gherao was unlawful and an act of intimidation against block officials. Also, the sarpanch had not taken any prior permission for the demonstration, he added.

“The sarpanch has been asked to deposit the fine within three days failing which action will be initiated against him as per COVID-19 guidelines, Sa said.