Vigilance Arrests General Manager Of TPWODL In DA Case In Odisha’s Sambalpur

Sambalpur: The Vigilance on Saturday arrested a general manager of Tata Power Western Odisha Distribution Ltd (TPWODL) in a disproportionate assets case.

Following the allegation of possession of assets disproportionate to the known sources of income by Santosh Kumar Darjee, general manager, TPWODL, Burla Corporate Office, Sambalpur, the Vigilance sleuths conducted simultaneous raids on his properties at 3 places Friday.

“We are looking into the case and are in touch with the State Vigilance Department. The bribery charge against the GM is a matter of serious concern for us and against the work ethics of TPWODL. We have already initiated an internal enquiry through a high-level committee comprising of senior-most officials. Strict action will be taken against the official in line with service rules and regulations,” said Gajanan Kale, CEO, TPWODL.

During house searches, movable and immovable assets worth over Rs 3.01 crore were unearthed in the name of Darjee. After thorough search, inventory and further enquiry, Darjee was found in possession of disproportionate assets to the tune of 151% of his known sources of income.

His properties included one duplex house in name of his spouse in prime area of Raipur, a residential double-storey building in Sambalpur town, Rs 7,20,360 in cash, bank deposits in name of Darjee and his family worth over Rs 56.59 lakhs, deposits in insurance companies worth over Rs 66.2 lakh, two plots in prime area of Ainthapali in Sambalpur, two four-wheelers worth Rs 20.59 lakh, 2 two-wheelers, gold jewellery worth over Rs 10.26 lakh and household articles worth over Rs 14.27 lakh.

The Vigilance arrested Darjee as he could not account for his properties satisfactorily and forwarded to court. Sambalpur Vigilance has registered a case against Darjee in this connection. Further investigation is in progress.