Berhampur (Odisha): In a shocking incident, senior advocate and BJP leader Pitabash Panda (50) was shot dead by unidentified miscreants near his residence in the Brahma Nagar area on Monday night. Panda, who was also a member of the Odisha State Bar Council and an RTI activist, was attacked while standing by the roadside close to his home.
Attack by unidentified assailants
According to eyewitnesses, at least two bike-borne assailants approached Panda and fired multiple shots at him from close range before fleeing the scene. Locals rushed to his aid and immediately shifted him to MKCG Medical College and Hospital, where doctors declared him dead on arrival.
The incident took place around 9 p.m., causing panic in the locality. Police arrived shortly after being alerted and cordoned off the area. Senior officials, including the Berhampur SP and forensic experts, inspected the crime scene late into the night.
Police investigation underway
Speaking to reporters, police officials said that the motive behind the murder is yet to be established. “We are examining multiple angles, including professional rivalry, personal enmity, and his role as an RTI activist,” an officer said.
The police have begun scanning CCTV footage from nearby establishments and collecting statements from residents. “Special teams have been formed to track down the assailants. We are confident of making arrests soon,” the official added.
Prominent legal and political figure
Panda was a well-known figure in Berhampur’s legal and political circles, known for his strong advocacy in legal reforms and social justice issues. As a member of the State Bar Council, he had actively raised concerns regarding transparency in governance and was involved in several RTI-related cases exposing irregularities.
Local BJP leaders expressed deep shock over the incident, calling it a “cowardly act” and demanding a swift and impartial investigation. Several lawyers also staged a brief protest at the Berhampur court complex on Tuesday, seeking justice for Panda and improved security for legal professionals.
Public outrage and demand for justice
Residents of Brahma Nagar and nearby areas gathered outside Panda’s residence late Monday night, demanding action against the culprits. His body was later sent for post-mortem at MKCG Hospital.
Local BJP representatives are expected to meet senior police officials and submit a memorandum urging the state government to hand over the case to the Crime Branch if progress is not seen within the next few days.
Police appeal for information
Police have appealed to the public to come forward with any information related to the suspects or their movements. “We are pursuing every lead. Anyone with information can contact the nearest police station. Their identity will be kept confidential,” officials stated.
As the investigation continues, the city remains tense, with enhanced patrolling and deployment of additional forces in sensitive areas.