Buguda: A video showing Buguda ranger Pradip Kumar Mishra allegedly receiving a bribe from timber mafia has gone viral, sparking widespread discussion.
The video, shot inside the Buguda forest division office, purportedly shows the timber mafia handing over Rs 5,000 in a bribe to Mishra in order to release his seized vehicle. However, the identity of the mafia, the exact timing of the payment, and the reasons behind it remain unclear.
When questioned about the viral clip, Mishra said the video appeared to be one and a half to two years old. He claimed the money was collected as compound fees and suggested that someone who recorded the clip back then may have released it now to serve personal interests after their demands were not met.
Ghumusar South forest division Assistant Conservator of Forests (ACF) Pradip Behera confi rmed that an inquiry has been initiated following the viral video.
Since the video is old, a thorough investigation will be carried out to uncover the facts, and appropriate action will be taken accordingly, he added.
PNN
