The death of Panchayat Executive Officer (PEO) Dandapani Patra of Ramachandrapur panchayat under Chikiti block in Ganjam district has deepened an administrative controversy that began earlier this month with allegations of misconduct against him.
Patra passed away after battling for 13 days at MKCG Medical College and Hospital following an alleged suicide attempt by consuming poison. His demise has triggered widespread debate, with questions being raised about the circumstances leading to the extreme step and the nature of the allegations.
The Additional Woman Tehsildar of Chikiti block had lodged a complaint before the Internal Complaints Committee (ICC) and filed an FIR at Golanthara Police Station, alleging inappropriate behaviour by Patra during a marathon organised on February 3 as part of a local festival.
Following the complaint, Patra allegedly consumed poison and was admitted to hospital, where he later succumbed.
A local resident, Appa Rao, described Patra as a dedicated official, stating that he had worked for over a decade and was known for personally participating in village cleanliness efforts and avoiding corrupt practices.
Berhampur Sub-Collector Avinash Kumar confirmed that the complaint was being examined by the Sub-Divisional Level Internal Complaints Committee and that notices had been issued to concerned individuals.
Saravana Vivek M, Superintendent of Police (SP) of Berhampur, said that while the matter was under investigation, police received information about the PEO’s suicide attempt. He added that the deceased’s family later filed a counter-complaint alleging misbehaviour by the Additional Tehsildar.
Police stated that both complaints are currently under investigation. A post-mortem examination was conducted before the body was handed over to the family.
