Sundargarh, May 22: In a significant anti-corruption move, Odisha Vigilance has secured the conviction of Alexander Ekka, the former Panchayat Secretary of Jodakudar Gram Panchayat under Lathikata block, for misappropriating office funds and rice meant for the panchayat.

The Special Vigilance Judge, Sundargarh, on Friday sentenced Ekka to two years of rigorous imprisonment and imposed a fine of ₹20,000. He was charged under Section 13(2) and 13(1)(c) of the Prevention of Corruption Act, 1988, and Section 409 of the Indian Penal Code.

Odisha Vigilance stated that it will approach the competent authority to halt Ekka’s pension following his conviction.

The case marks a continued effort by the state’s anti-corruption agency to hold public officials accountable for misappropriation of resources. A detailed report on the matter is awaited.