Odisha CM Dismisses Bhadrak Medical Officer Over Bribery Conviction

Bhubaneswar: In a strong message against corruption, Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi has dismissed Dr. Karunakar Rout, a government medical officer, from service following his conviction in a bribery case.

Dr. Rout, who was serving as the Medical Officer at Bhadrak District Headquarters Hospital, was terminated with immediate effect after the Special Vigilance Court found him guilty and sentenced him to two years of imprisonment along with a fine of ₹10,000.

The vigilance case against Dr. Rout dates back to his tenure at Madhuban Community Health Centre (CHC) in Jajpur district. Cuttack Vigilance had filed a charge sheet against him in January 2024 for demanding and accepting a bribe. Following his conviction, Odisha Vigilance recommended his removal, which was promptly approved by the state government.

In an official statement, the Chief Minister’s Office reiterated the government’s zero-tolerance stance on corruption. “The Chief Minister has made it clear that no corrupt official will be spared, regardless of their position,” the release stated.

The CMO also confirmed that, under Majhi’s leadership, the Vigilance Department has intensified its efforts and is taking firm action against several senior officials and employees facing corruption charges in various departments.