Odisha to Establish Vigilance Forensic Science Institute, Boosts Anti-Corruption Initiatives

Bhubaneswar: Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi announced on Monday the establishment of a Vigilance Forensic Science Institute in the state, aimed at enhancing anti-corruption efforts. The announcement came during the inauguration of Odisha Vigilance’s ‘Anti-Corruption Awareness Week’ at Lok Seva Bhawan in Bhubaneswar.

The Chief Minister emphasized the government’s commitment to strengthening Odisha Vigilance, noting that eight new Superintendents of Police (SPs), an equal number of Additional SPs, 24 Deputy Superintendents of Police (DSPs), and 16 Sub-Inspectors (SIs) would be added to the department. In a bid to improve investigative capabilities, 24 specialists—including cyber experts, chartered accountants, and bank experts—will also be appointed. Odisha Vigilance will soon receive 135 motorcycles and 160 desktops and laptops to support field operations and data management.

As part of the ceremony, Chief Minister Majhi honored Koraput SP P.K. Dwivedi as the Best Anti-Corruption Officer of the Year 2023. The Bolangir Vigilance Unit received an award for its outstanding work, while Balasore’s Dushmanth Nayak and Berhampur’s DSP Shabitanchali Naik were recognized as Best Investigating Officers. Hemant Kumar Swain, a public prosecutor at the Vigilance Court, was celebrated as the Best Public Prosecutor for his dedicated service.

The establishment of the Vigilance Forensic Science Institute is expected to bring a specialized, scientific approach to combating corruption in Odisha, aiding the state’s ongoing mission to ensure transparency and accountability in governance.