Berhampur Court Rejects Bail Pleas in Pitabas Panda Murder Case
A local court in Berhampur has rejected the bail applications of five accused in the high‑profile murder of lawyer Pitabas Panda, including former MLA Bikram Panda.
The Additional District & Sessions Judge dismissed pleas filed by Bikram Panda, former Berhampur Mayor Pintu Das, lawyer Madan Dalei, Sunil Hota, and Sunya Das.
Police investigations have linked the killing to political rivalry, personal enmity, and financial disputes, describing it as a carefully planned conspiracy involving individuals both within and outside Odisha.
On October 6, 2025, Panda was shot near his residence around 10 p.m. while returning home.
He was rushed to MKCG Medical College and Hospital, where doctors declared him dead upon arrival. Authorities later identified Bikram Panda and Pintu Das as the main conspirators.
In October, officials shifted Pintu Das from Berhampur Circle Jail to Phulbani Jail after a petition raised concerns about his safety, citing threats to his life.
The case continues to draw attention due to its political implications in Odisha, with the Orissa High Court recently dropping a contempt case after Berhampur SP’s apology in connection with the probe.
