Bhubaneswar, Aug 31: In a significant development in its anti-corruption drive, the Odisha Vigilance has secured the conviction of Kartikeswar Sahu, former Soil Conservation Officer of Purunakatak in Boudh district, in a disproportionate assets (DA) case.

According to the Vigilance department, Sahu, who has since retired from government service, was charge-sheeted under Section 13(2) read with Section 13(1)(e) of the Prevention of Corruption Act, 1988 for allegedly possessing assets disproportionate to his known sources of income.

The case was heard by the Special Vigilance Judge, Phulbani, on August 31, who convicted Sahu and sentenced him to one year of rigorous imprisonment.

The court also imposed a fine of Rs 50,000 on the retired officer.

Following the conviction, the Odisha Vigilance is set to approach the competent authority seeking stoppage of Sahu's pension, as per applicable provisions.

The conviction is being viewed as another step in the state's ongoing efforts to crack down on corruption and possession of disproportionate assets by public servants.