The Odisha government has reinstated suspended IAS officer Dhiman Chakma in the Revenue Department.
The Odisha government has recalled IAS officer Dhiman Chakma to service and posted him as Deputy Secretary in the Revenue and Disaster Management Department. This decision comes nearly a year after he was suspended in a corruption case. Officials have clarified that reinstatement does not mean he has been acquitted of the charges against him, as both the departmental inquiry and the criminal case are still pending.
Arrest on Bribery Complaint
Chakma, a 2021 batch IAS officer, was serving as the Sub-Collector of Dharamgarh in Kalahandi district when the Odisha Vigilance Department arrested him on June 8, 2025. The action followed a complaint from a local businessman who operated a stone crusher unit.
According to Vigilance Department officials, Chakma had demanded ₹20 lakh from the businessman and threatened government action if the demand was not met. The businessman reportedly recorded the conversation and contacted the Vigilance Directorate for help. Based on the complaint, officials monitored him and planned a trap.
During the operation, Chakma was caught accepting ₹10 lakh, the first installment of the amount allegedly demanded. A case was subsequently registered against him under the Prevention of Corruption Act.
Cash recovered during the search
Immediately after the arrest, the vigilance team searched Chakma's official residence. During the search, officials reportedly recovered ₹4.7 million in cash. Following this seizure, investigators expanded the scope of the investigation into his financial situation, assets, and previous positions.
Officials have stated that the investigation is investigating the full extent of the misconduct and whether there were any other irregularities involving the official.
Suspension and Bail
On June 10, 2025, two days after his arrest, the state government suspended Chakma and initiated departmental proceedings against him. He was also produced in court in connection with the case.
Later, on July 24, 2025, the Odisha High Court granted him bail.
Why has he been reinstated?
Government sources stated that this latest reinstatement is in accordance with service rules regarding long periods of suspension. However, this move will not affect ongoing legal and departmental proceedings.
The departmental inquiry and criminal proceedings pending before the Vigilance Court will continue separately. Government officials have clarified that Chakma's future in service will depend on the final outcome of these proceedings. Further action against him will be decided only after the court's decision and the completion of the investigation process.
