Deogaon, Nov 12: A controversy has erupted in Odisha's Deogaon block after an audio recording and screenshots of WhatsApp conversations allegedly involving a Junior Engineer (JE) and a contractor went viral on social media. The engineer is accused of using abusive language against the contractor over a delay of just 10 minutes, while allegations of commission demands and financial irregularities have also surfaced.

According to the viral audio, the JE begins the phone conversation by asking the contractor, "Hasn't it been 10 minutes yet?" The contractor responds that he had not promised to complete the work within 10 minutes that day and had instead said he would do it the following day.

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The conversation reportedly turns heated soon after, with the JE allegedly using objectionable and abusive language that cannot be reproduced.

The audio clip and photographs, which are reportedly from the Deogaon block area, have been widely circulated on mobile phones and social media.

The controversy has also triggered allegations that the contractor was being pressured over the alleged non-payment of a commission, commonly referred to as 'PC'. Social media discussions claim that the dispute involved a work project initially estimated at Rs 4 lakh, for which a bill of Rs 4.78 lakh was allegedly raised.

Screenshots of WhatsApp conversations purportedly exchanged between the JE and the contractor have also gone viral. In one message, the JE allegedly warned the contractor that a case would be registered in the name of Dinesh Biswal. Another message reportedly questioned whether the contractor believed he could escape by not answering a phone call.

In response, the contractor allegedly claimed that a bill of Rs 4.78 lakh had been raised against work worth Rs 5 lakh. He further alleged that the JE had received Rs 62,000 as commission but had still deducted another Rs 10,000. The contractor also referred to missed phone calls and questioned whether he would face consequences over the remaining Rs 10,000.

The viral audio and chat screenshots have raised questions over alleged financial dealings and the conduct of officials in the department. However, the authenticity of the recordings and the allegations made in the messages are yet to be independently established.

Meanwhile, the Deogaon Block Development Officer (BDO) has reportedly said that an investigation into the matter is underway.