Odisha: Sarpanch fined Rs 1 lakh for violating Covid-19 norm

Gaisilet: A Sarpanch was fined Rs 1 lakh today for allegedly violating Covid-19 regulation in Odisha’s Bargarh district. Block Development Officer (BDO), Gaisilet, Niranjan Sa imposed the fine on Sarpanch of Gaurenmunda panchayat Malaba Sahu for organizing a congregation of 150 villagers on the premises of the block office yesterday.

In a letter to the Sarpanch, the BDO stated Malaba’s involvement in organizing the congregation to intimidate block officials is evident from the video footage of the block office CCTV camera and the video captured by the block office staff and their testimony. During the congregation the BDO was on a field visit.

The letter further stated the Sarpanch had not taken any prior permission to organize the congregation.

The Sarpanch was asked to deposit the fine in the BDO office within three days. If the Sarpanch fails to oblige, action will be initiated against as per Covid-19 pandemic guideline, the letter added.

It is worth to be mentioned any congregation by general public beyond 10 persons at a place at any period of time is prohibited for containing the spread of the Covid-19 disease.