Odisha MVI under Vigilance scanner: Raids uncover lavish assets

BY KAMBUDHAR KHETI

Boudh, Aug. 3: In a major crackdown on corruption, Odisha Vigilance on Sunday raided multiple locations linked to Golap Chandra Hansdah, a Motor Vehicle Inspector (MVI) posted in Boudh, unearthing a massive haul of assets suspected to be disproportionate to his known sources of income.

The coordinated searches, conducted on the basis of specific intelligence inputs, revealed a startling inventory of property, cash, and valuables accumulated by Hansdah and his family. Among the most prominent seizures was a double-storeyed residence spanning approximately 3,300 square feet, located at Prafulla Nagar in Baripada, Mayurbhanj district.

Investigators also stumbled upon a staggering 44 land plots — 35 in and around Baripada and others in Sribantpur, Balasore. The Vigilance Technical Wing is currently assessing the market value of these immovable assets.

Additional recoveries included Rs 2.38 lakh in cash, 250 grams of gold jewellery, 400 grams of silver ornaments, and deposits worth Rs 56 lakh spread across bank and postal accounts. The team is also verifying other investments and financial holdings.

What raised further eyebrows was the revelation that Hansdah had allegedly spent around ₹40 lakh on his daughter’s medical education — an amount now under scrutiny for its legitimacy in light of his official earnings.

The sleuths also seized one Hyundai Creta SUV and three two-wheelers, all registered in the names of Hansdah or his family members.

With searches still underway at various properties, officials said a detailed inventory and valuation are expected soon. A senior Vigilance officer confirmed that a case has been registered and legal proceedings will follow based on the findings of the ongoing investigation.

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Photograph Caption:

Finally Caught: Motor Vehicle Inspector Golap Chandra Hansdah during Vigilance action.