The Odisha Crime Branch has initiated a formal inquiry into serious allegations of misuse of power against former IAS officer and politician V K Pandian. The probe centers on claims that Pandian exercised extra-constitutional authority during the tenure of former Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik.
Notice Seeks Concrete Evidence
Acting on a petition, the state crime branch has issued a formal notice under Section 94 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS). The notice, served by DSP Santosh Kumar Gauda, directs the petitioner, Surendra Panigrahi, a resident of Berhampur, to appear before the authorities on January 6. He has been asked to produce all relevant documents, electronic records, or other articles to substantiate his allegations.
Panigrahi had originally submitted his petition to multiple authorities, including the principal secretary (home), on February 8, 2024. His complaint outlined several specific charges against Pandian, who served as the private secretary to Naveen Patnaik and later as the 5T secretary.
Key Allegations Under Scrutiny
The petition levels several serious accusations. It claims that V K Pandian, while acting as the 5T chairman, issued official letters despite not holding any formal office or department. Furthermore, it alleges he used a state helicopter for travel between educational institutions illegally. The petitioner also states that vice-chancellors and college principals would suspend classes during his visits, and that these activities were allegedly kept hidden from the then Chief Minister, Naveen Patnaik.
Pandian, once considered a key aide to Naveen Patnaik, took voluntary retirement from service in October 2023 before joining the Biju Janata Dal (BJD). He was subsequently appointed as the 5T chairman. His political influence has waned significantly following the BJD's defeat in the 2024 simultaneous Lok Sabha and state assembly elections.
Political Reactions and Official Stance
The crime branch's move has sparked immediate political reactions. BJD MLA Ganeswar Behera stated that while the government is free to order even a CBI probe, it will not find any wrongdoing. He characterized the inquiry as "political hounding" that would not be viewed favorably by the public.
In contrast, Law Minister Prithiviraj Harichandan maintained that any alleged wrongdoing by anyone is subject to legal scrutiny. He asserted, "If the inquiry finds illegalities, action will be taken as per law." Despite attempts to reach him for a comment, V K Pandian could not be contacted.
This investigation marks a significant development, placing the actions of a once-powerful bureaucrat-turned-politician under the official scanner of the state's law enforcement agency.
