Serious Allegation Against Basta BDO

Jaleswar (Ajit Kumar Sahoo): Serious allegations against Basta BDO, Gyan Ranjan Sahu is that he was responsible for the death of BPC Subhalakshmi. Sujay, husband of the deceased Subhalakshmi, the Sarpanch of Basta Block, the members of the committee, the representatives of the PRI members, and even various officials and staff of the block have brought such serious allegations against the BDO. Perhaps this is the first time in the history of Odisha that all the employees and public representatives working in Block office have made such serious allegations in unilateral manner.

According to the complaint, Subhalakshmi Mahakud, who was working as the BPC of the RH department in Basta block was six months pregnant and never neglected her duties. Rather, he became a favourite of everyone for his dedication, efficiency and honesty. But Gyan Ranjan Sahu, the newly-joined Basta BDO, not abiding the COVID rules, was forcing Subhalakshmi to do more works, even after office hours. She wanted to stay at home as per the COVID rules, as well as to take leave for illness. However, the BDO did not allow it.

Similarly, during Yaash, RH Assistant, Project Director Chamanda Charles Phillips demanded a bribe of Rs 10,000 to Subhalakshmi. Her husband has complained that she died of Corona on the 23rd after suffering from a mental illness and lack of adequate rest and timely medical care. However, in the tribute meeting held at the meeting hall of the Basta Panchayat Samiti, all the PRI members and employees blamed Gyana Ranjan Sahu for the death of Subhalakshmi. Two lives were lost due to his negligence.

Not only Subhalakshmi, but all the block employees and PRI members of the block accused that the BDO abused them unnecessarily and torturing them by ordering to stand in front of the office for hours. On the other hand Subhalakshmi’s husband, Sujay Jena, has lodged complaint with the Basta police station also lodged complaints with the Baleshwar District Magistrate, the Human Rights Commission and the Chief Minister for a high level investigation and to punish the BDO. However the BDO declined the allegation against him also claimed it baseless.