Odisha’s Food Supplies and Consumer Welfare Minister Krushna Chandra Patra has filed a complaint with the Dhenkanal Town Police, claiming he was defrauded of Rs 25 lakh in a land transaction that dates back to 2021.

At that time, Patra was a company director and was approached by an individual from Banasingh, which falls under the Dhenkanal Sadar police jurisdiction. The suspect assured him that he could secure a plot in the Banasingh area at a reasonable price. Trusting this offer, Patra paid Rs 25 lakh as an advance. Unfortunately, the promised transaction never came to fruition.

The intermediary not only avoided further contact but also issued two cheques that ultimately bounced. Despite Patra sending legal notices and proposing repayment extensions—first until November 2024, and then January 2025—he has yet to receive any funds.

“This was a personal issue before I entered politics. The police will conduct an investigation accordingly,” Patra stated while addressing the media.

The police have commenced an investigation and are attempting to locate the accused. Patra’s decision to file the complaint reflects an increasing awareness and accountability—even among senior officials—regarding financial fraud in real estate transactions.