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Fake Death Certificate Scam: Dongria Kondh Families Accuse Officials of Embezzlement
Dongria Kondh Community Accuses Officials of Embezzlement Using Fake Death Certificates
Rayagada, January 23:- The Dongria Kondh, a primitive tribal community residing in the Niyamgiri hills of Odisha, have accused officials of the Labour Department in Rayagada district of embezzling government aid funds by issuing fraudulent death certificates. The affected families have filed a formal complaint with the district superintendent of police, demanding immediate action against those involved in the alleged scam.
According to reports, several Dongria Kondh families from Muniguda block claim they have been deprived of the financial assistance provided by the government under the labour welfare scheme. Six families from Munikhol panchayat approached Rayagada district superintendent of police, Swathi S. Kumar, IPS and submitted a written complaint alleging that the funds meant for their deceased family members were fraudulently claimed using fake certificates.
The complainants, including Rupuli Sikka of San Denguni village, Kane Krishika of Golgala village, Pon Pulme Katraka of Mutangu village, Telari Sikka of Munda village, and Saib Sikka of Gu Japai village, alleged that the aid was wrongfully taken by intermediaries in collusion with government officials. They specifically accused Dr. Sabyasachi Mohapatra, a former medical officer in Muniguda, of issuing fake death certificates, enabling fraudulent claims.
The families further alleged that then-District Labour Officer, Jasmini Subhadarshani Sahu, was complicit in the misappropriation of funds. They have urged authorities to conduct a thorough investigation into the alleged involvement of both Dr. Mohapatra and the labour department officials.
Reports suggest that similar irregularities were reported during the tenure of Smt. Sahu, leading to departmental inquiries against her.
Local BSP leader has publicly alleged that over 20 Dongria Kondh families have fallen victim to the scam and has demanded stringent action against those responsible. He warned of protests if the accused officials are not brought to justice.
Authorities have assured that an investigation is currently underway, and appropriate legal action will be taken based on the findings.
By
C B Singh
Bureau Chief
Southern Odisha
Fake Death Certificate Scam: Dongria Kondh Families Accuse Officials of Embezzlement
