IN THE HIGH COURT OF ORISSA AT CUTTACK W.P.(C) No.2356 of 2026 In the matter of an application under Articles 226 & 227 of the Constitution of India.

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Dr. Debashis Mohapatra …. Petitioner -versus-

State of Odisha & Anr. …. Opposite Parties For Petitioner : Mr. N. Biswal, Advocate For Opp. Parties : Mr. P.P. Behera, ASC PRESENT:

THE HON’BLE JUSTICE BIRAJA PRASANNA SATAPATHY ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Date of Hearing: 17.02.2026 and Date of Judgment: 17.02.2026 ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Biraja Prasanna Satapathy, J

1. This matter is taken up through hybrid mode.

2. Pursuant to order dtd.27.01.2026, learned Addl. Standing Counsel produced the instruction provided by the Department vide letter dtd.17.02.2026 in Court. The same be kept in record.

3. Basing on the instruction so provided, learned Addl. Standing Counsel contended that charges in both the vigilance proceeding and departmental proceeding though are identical and similar, but there is no bar to proceed in the departmental proceeding.

4. Heard Mr. N. Biswal, learned counsel appearing for the Petitioner and Mr