Former Associate Rakesh Pattnaik Levels Serious Allegations Against Bapi Sarkhel, Seeks Fresh Investigation

Paradip :- A fresh controversy has emerged in Paradip following allegations made by local businessman and trade union leader Rakesh Pattnaik against so-called leader Bapi Sarkhel during a press conference held on Tuesday.

The development comes in the aftermath of the recent bomb attack on the residence of Paradip Municipality Chairperson Basanta Biswal. Following the incident, several political parties and social organizations had reportedly submitted separate memorandum to the Additional Superintendent of Police, demanding the arrest of the main accused and seeking an investigation into the alleged role of Bapi Sarkhel.

          A day earlier, Sarkhel had addressed a press conference, claiming that attempts were being made to falsely implicate him in the incident. He also alleged the involvement of Rakesh Pattnaik, describing him as a criminal. Responding to these allegations, Pattnaik strongly denied the charges and accused Sarkhel of orchestrating efforts to tarnish his image.

          Addressing the media, Pattnaik stated that he had worked as a manager in Sarkhel’s company, Shark Group Marketing Limited, after moving to Paradip from Kakatpur in 2007. He alleged that during his tenure, large sums of money were received by the company from contractors working in and around the Indian Oil Corporation Limited (IOCL) project area. According to Pattnaik, these funds were collected in the name of “protection money,” although he did not provide documentary evidence during the press conference.Pattnaik further alleged that through an organization named Paradip-Ersama Industrial Development Council, hundreds of local youths were enrolled and used to exert pressure on companies operating in the region. He claimed that employment opportunities were often linked to these arrangements.

          He stated that after becoming aware of these alleged activities, he distanced himself from Sarkhel in 2016. Pattnaik further alleged that following their separation, he became the target of multiple criminal cases and attacks. He claimed that his vehicle was fired upon in January 2016 and that several cases were lodged against him at Abhayachandpur Police Station.

          The labour leader also alleged that incidents, including a firing case at a guest house associated with a company working at the NRL project site in 2023, were staged to falsely implicate him. He claimed that numerous cases had been filed against him through individuals allegedly associated with Sarkhel.Pattnaik has demanded a detailed investigation into the alleged financial transactions of Shark Group Marketing Limited, including funds amounting to over ₹500 crore, and has sought a reinvestigation of criminal cases registered in his name.

          No official response from Bapi Sarkhel was immediately available regarding the latest allegations. The claims made by Rakesh Pattnaik are allegations and have not been independently verified. Authorities have not yet announced any fresh investigation into the matter.