Sambalpur, June 9: The Forest Department has suspended Jhankarpali Section Forester, Sucharita Mahanad, following serious allegations of corruption and dereliction of duty. The action was taken by Sambalpur Divisional Forest Officer (DFO) Kulange Gorakh Owham on Monday, just a day after the accusations came to light.
According to sources, the suspension stems from a viral audio clip in which Mahanad is allegedly heard instructing a night forest guard to engage in corrupt practices linked to bamboo SSO (Senior Scientific Officer) operations. The night guard reportedly resisted the pressure, expressing fear of getting caught, but was allegedly coerced by the forester.
The audio has sparked widespread concern, revealing a potential pattern of malpractice within the department. It also includes claims that the current DFO has not been conducting field inspections, unlike his predecessor, who despite visiting sites, allegedly facilitated fraudulent billing and misappropriation of funds.
During her suspension, Mahanad has been temporarily assigned to the Dhama Forest Range Office.
The incident has raised serious questions about internal monitoring mechanisms within the Forest Department. The viral audio has not only exposed alleged corruption at the ground level but also pointed to lapses in oversight by senior officials.
Authorities have confirmed that further inquiry is underway to investigate the full extent of the misconduct.
