Odisha Engineer Caught Disposing Cash from Apartment Amid Corruption Investigation
In a shocking incident in Bhubaneswar, Odisha, Baikuntha Nath Sarangi, a chief engineer, was caught discarding bundles of ₹500 notes from his apartment window amid a corruption investigation. The vigilance department's raid uncovered over ₹2 crore in cash and assets suspected to be disproportionate to his income. Witnesses reported the dramatic scene as Sarangi attempted to dispose of the cash upon noticing the officials. This incident raises serious questions about corruption within government ranks and the measures being taken to address it. Read on for more details about this unfolding story.
| May 30, 2025, 13:52 IST
Incident Overview
A man in Bhubaneswar, Odisha, was seen throwing bundles of ₹500 notes from his apartment window, leading to a shower of cash on the street below. The individual has been identified as Baikuntha Nath Sarangi, a chief engineer in the state's rural development department. This incident came to light following a government investigation into allegations of corruption and the possession of assets exceeding ₹2 crore.
Seizure of Cash
During a raid conducted by the vigilance department, officials recovered over ₹2 crore in cash and valuable assets suspected to be disproportionate to Sarangi's known income. The operation involved searches at both his residence and office, as stated by the Odisha police's anti-corruption branch. The raids targeted Sarangi's properties located in Bhubaneswar and Angul.
Details of the Cash Recovery
According to officials, approximately ₹1 crore was seized from Sarangi's flat in Bhubaneswar, while an additional ₹1.1 crore was found at his Angul residence. Witnesses reported that upon noticing the vigilance officers, Sarangi hastily discarded bundles of cash from his window, which were later recovered by authorities.
Official Statement
Today, on the allegation of possession of disproportionate assets by Sri Baikuntha Nath Sarangi, Chief Engineer, RW Division, Odisha, house searches are ongoing by #Odisha #Vigilance at 7 locations. Approx ₹2.1 Crore cash recovered so far from his house at Bhubaneswar (₹1 Cr) & Angul (₹1.1 Cr). pic.twitter.com/j0H344OiqA
— Odisha Vigilance (@OdishaVigilance) May 30, 2025