Home Guard Suspended Over Alleged Extortion in Kalahandi

Kalahandi: A home guard posted at Jaipatna Police Station in Odisha’s Kalahandi district has been suspended following allegations of extortion and misuse of his position, police officials said on Sunday.

The suspended home guard, identified as Pabitra Mohan Nayak, is accused of illegally collecting money from local liquor traders, operators of betting and gambling activities, and individuals allegedly involved in the ganja trade.

According to sources, Nayak, a resident of the Jaipatna area, had allegedly established an informal network through which he extorted money from various illegal and semi-legal businesses operating in the locality. He is also accused of intimidating local residents and exerting undue influence in the area.

The allegations reportedly came to light following complaints from local sources, prompting scrutiny by senior police officials.

After a preliminary verification of the complaints, Kalahandi Superintendent of Police Nagaraj Devarakonda ordered Nayak’s suspension pending further inquiry.

Police sources said further investigation into the allegations is underway, and appropriate action will be taken based on the findings.