Bhubaneswar: A retired BDO in Bolangir district has been sentenced to two years rigorous imprisonment after his conviction in a disproportionate assets case.
Sylvanus Lakra, Ex-BDO (Retired), Agalpur Block, who was charge sheeted by Odisha Vigilance in a case vide Special Judge,Vigilance, Bolangir TR No 10/2012 U/s 13(2)r/w13(1)(e) of PC Act, 1988 for possessing Disproportionate Assets, was convicted by Special Judge, Vigilance, Bolangir.
Lakra has been sentenced to undergo rigorous imprisonment for a period of 2 years and fine of Rs.5 Lakhs and in default of payment of fine to undergo further rigorous imprisonment for a period of 5 months more for the offence U/s 13(2)r/w13(1)(e) of PC Act,1988.
Odisha Vigilance will now move the competent authority for stoppage of pension of Lakra following his conviction.
Just in December 2023, 16 cases have ended in conviction till date.
Odisha Vigilance has taken a number of steps to strengthen prosecution. Trials in 21 Vigilance Courts are being closely monitored by the Vigilance Directorate. 21 PLOs (Prosecution Liaison Officers) have been engaged few months back, who are playing a major role in strengthening the prosecution.
Besides, assisting the Vigilance Public Prosecutors in the trial, they are also tasked with ensuring expeditious trial, and monitoring evidence tendered by witnesses in the Vigilance Courts during trial.
Odisha Vigilance has recently received a sanction from government for engagement of expert Legal Advisors in each of the Divisions. This measure will further enhance the quality of evidence gathered during investigation, and improve the conviction rates further, the Vigilance said.