Rayagada: Amidst a series of political claims and counterclaims, the Integrated Tribal Development Agency (ITDA), Rayagada, has rejected accusations of misappropriating ₹4 crore, asserting they are politically driven and inconsistent with official records. Project Administrator Chandrakant Majhi stated that all expenditures by ITDA were conducted through proper channels, receiving administrative approval and maintaining transparent documentation. “Every rupee spent is traceable and backed by official sanction. There has been no misuse of funds,” he affirmed. Majhi referenced the proceedings of the Special Development Council (SDC) meeting from September 28, 2023, which sanctioned the procurement and distribution of musical instruments and sports kits to all 182 gram panchayats in the district.
This initiative, costing ₹6 crore, is designed to engage tribal youth and preserve cultural identity. He pointed to a letter dated February 16, 2024, from Anusaya Majhi, the then Chairperson of SDC Rayagada, to former Collector and CEO, Swadha Dev Singh, recommending procurement through the Odisha Consumers’ Co-operative Federation Ltd. (OCCF) in Bhubaneswar, a top cooperative under the State government. “This documentation clearly shows that the process had full administrative awareness and approval at all levels,” Majhi stressed, adding that all related records and endorsements are available for verification.
He also mentioned a State Level Advisory Committee (SLAC) resolution from December 15, 2020, which authorized Collectors-cum-CEOs to carry on with SDC projects until the councils were reconstituted, ensuring the continuity of tribal welfare programs. In contrast, BJD leader Pradeep Majhi recently claimed that ₹4 crore of tribal development funds under ITDA Rayagada were misappropriated, alleging accounting irregularities and lack of transparency. Observers note that the timing and nature of the accusation appear politically motivated, particularly as documents and government correspondence demonstrate previous approval and adherence to procedures. Majhi asserted that ITDA Rayagada operates with integrity and accountability and is open to any official audits or inquiries by competent authorities.