IAS officer Aradhana Das has been accused of cheating a differently-abled man of ₹95 lakh in a land deal. Police have sought government approval to initiate action.
Senior IAS officer Aradhana Das has come under serious legal scrutiny following allegations of financial fraud and criminal intimidation. The police have now approached the state government seeking approval to initiate formal proceedings against her.
Currently serving as Additional Secretary in the Odisha Home Department, Das is accused of cheating a differently-abled individual of ₹95 lakh under the pretext of facilitating a land allotment.
Alleged Fraud Linked to Land Deal
According to the complaint, the officer allegedly assured the complainant, Kamal Kumar Bhawsinka, that she would arrange land in the Cuttack Development Authority (CDA) area.
The complainant has claimed that despite receiving ₹95 lakh, the promised land was never provided, nor was the money returned.
Investigators revealed that the payments were made in two instalments through the Bank of India by the complainant’s wife, along with an additional portion reportedly paid in cash.
FIR Registered, Probe Confirms Transaction
A formal case has been registered at the CDA Phase-II Police Station. During the course of the investigation, officials confirmed that the financial transaction of ₹95 lakh did take place in connection with the alleged land deal.
Authorities have also indicated that the officer did not fully cooperate with the investigation, which has added to the seriousness of the case.
Police Await Government Sanction
As per established service rules, action against an IAS officer requires prior approval from the competent authority.
The Commissionerate Police has written to the Odisha Home Department and the General Administration Department (GAD), seeking sanction to proceed legally against Das.
In addition to fraud, the complaint also includes allegations of verbal abuse and threats to the complainant’s life.
Career Profile of Aradhana Das
Aradhana Das is a senior bureaucrat with more than three decades of administrative experience.
She began her career in the Odisha Administrative Service (OAS)
Held key roles such as Additional District Magistrate in Ganjam
Served as Additional Secretary in the ST & SC Development Department
Promoted to the IAS under the 2024 select list and formally inducted in April 2025
Currently posted in the Home Department at the state level
Training at LBSNAA and Recent Recognition
Following her induction into the IAS, Das underwent training at the Lal Bahadur Shastri National Academy of Administration in Mussoorie.
In March 2026, she completed her induction programme and was recognised for her performance in a group presentation during the “Bharat Darshan” module.
Controversy Clouds Administrative Career
The allegations have cast a shadow over her otherwise long service record. According to reports, Das has denied having prior knowledge of the FIR in early April 2026.
The matter is currently awaiting government approval for further legal and departmental action, which will determine the future course of the investigation.
