Suspended Former Astaranga IIC Rajesh Baliarsingh Surrenders in Koraput After Six Months

Jeypore (Koraput): Rajesh Baliarsingh, the former Inspector-in-Charge (IIC) of Astaranga Police Station in Puri district, surrendered before the District and Sessions Court in Koraput district after remaining absconding for nearly six months.

Baliarsingh had been suspended earlier on charges of dereliction of duty and gross misconduct. He was under investigation for his alleged links to ganja (cannabis) smuggling activities during his previous posting as a Sub-Inspector at Jeypore Town Police Station in Koraput.

According to reports, he was accused of cooperating with ganja smugglers and allegedly using his official vehicle to facilitate illegal transportation. He also reportedly shielded mafia elements involved in the illicit trade.

The matter escalated in August 2025 when the Odisha Director General of Police (DGP) placed him under suspension. Subsequently, a Koraput police team summoned him to Bhubaneswar for questioning, where he was interrogated at the Capital Police Station.

However, during the investigation process, Baliarsingh allegedly escaped from custody, triggering a statewide manhunt. Police teams also conducted a raid at his official residence as part of the search operation.

The case pertains to allegations of protecting and aiding ganja trafficking networks. Further legal proceedings are expected following his surrender.