Jharsuguda DFO (Kenduleaf) Sudhakar Mallick was suspended on Thursday for his alleged role in the forestors’ recruitment irregularities, informed Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (PCCF) MK Mohapatra. Sources said during January and March this year, physical, written and oral tests were conducted for eight forestor posts in the Jharsuguda Kenduleaf Division. But it was alleged that the final merit list published on March 26 included five candidates who were relatives of some serving and retired employees of the Forest Department.
After the allegation was reported in media, the concerned authorities ordered for a departmental inquiry. Thereafter, 12 unsuccessful candidates also resorted to a fast-onto-death agitation at the Collectorate here from April 20 to 26. Earlier on March 12, Regional Chief Conservator of Forests (RCCF) Sambalpur Sisir Acharya had recorded statements of the 12 complainants at the division office at Barmal. A few days after, he submitted his report to the State Government recommending for a Vigilance inquiry into the alleged matter.