Tension Grips IMFA Factory in Odisha as Senior Official Resigns Amid Allegations
Sudhansu Singh (Bureau chief Southern Odisha)
Rayagada, Odisha | April 6, 2025
The Indian Metals & Ferro Alloys (IMFA) factory in Therubali, Rayagada district, has been thrust into turmoil following the abrupt resignation of Deputy General Manager (DGM) Samir Kumar Raut, sparking widespread speculation and unease among employees and local communities.
Raut tendered his resignation on April 3, 2025, and was reportedly directed to vacate his official residence within 24 hours. By April 5, he had departed the premises, removing personal belongings and leaving behind a cloud of unanswered questions. While IMFA’s management has yet to issue an official statement, internal sources allege Raut faced pressure to resign over accusations of professional misconduct and unethical practices.
Anonymous former employees claim he was given an ultimatum to resign or risk termination.
Unverified reports suggest Raut may have been implicated in financial irregularities, including the alleged misappropriation of funds collected under the guise of supporting local leaders, media personnel, and public representatives. The factory’s security department is also under scrutiny, with speculation that certain personnel may have aided in concealing these activities.
Concerns have further emerged regarding irregularities in local youth recruitment processes, though details remain unclear.
When contacted, Raut declined to elaborate, stating only that the decision was “taken at the HR level.” Repeated attempts to reach IMFA’s Public Relations Officer, Deepak Ojha, for comment were unsuccessful, and the Vice President’s office has not responded to inquiries.
The controversy has rattled the community, with many expressing disillusionment over the erosion of trust in a company once viewed as a beacon of regional development.
Raut, initially seen as a progressive leader, exits after a brief tenure marred by scandal, raising broader concerns about accountability and governance within IMFA.
As tensions simmer, stakeholders await an official explanation from IMFA management to address the allegations and restore confidence in the facility’s operations.
The incident underscores growing calls for transparency in Odisha’s industrial sector, where balancing economic growth with ethical practices remains a critical challenge.
