Trouble for ex Minister Prafulla Samal: ED raids residence in connection with Barapada Engineering College scam

Bhubaneswar: Trouble brewed for former Odisha Minister and BJD’s Bhandaripokhari MLA Prafulla Samal as Enforcement Directorate (ED) officials conducted a raid at his residence in Bhadrak district today.

This development comes in connection with the financial irregularities at Barapada Engineering College, stirring fresh controversy in the region.

According to sources, simultaneous raids were also carried out at ten other locations, including four in Bhadrak district, and at the residence of the former principal of Barapada Engineering College. These coordinated actions suggest a deepening probe into the alleged malpractices surrounding the educational institution.

The focus of these raids revolves around the alleged financial misappropriation at Barapada Engineering College, a matter that has previously ignited protests within the community. It is purported that Samal and his son, Prayaskanti Samal, are entangled in a multi-crore scam involving the diversion of funds collected from students as fees.

Shockingly, these funds were allegedly diverted for personal gains, including the acquisition of land and properties in Bhubaneswar and other locations.

The situation at Barapada Engineering College has been fraught with discontent among employees, who have repeatedly raised concerns over non-payment of salaries. Despite multiple appeals to the district administration, MLA, and college authorities, their grievances remained unaddressed. This lack of resolution exacerbated the brewing discontent, leading to intensified calls for vigilance and ED intervention.

While the exact reasons behind the ED raids have not been officially disclosed, it is widely anticipated that the investigative agency will issue a comprehensive statement following the conclusion of its operations. This development marks a significant escalation in the ongoing investigation into the alleged financial irregularities plaguing Barapada Engineering College and implicating prominent figures like Prafulla Samal.