Berhampur, Oct 7: In a shocking incident that has sent tremors through Odisha’s political and legal circles, senior BJP leader and renowned lawyer Pitabas Panda was shot dead near his residence in Berhampur late Monday night.

The attack occurred around 10 pm when Panda was returning home from his chamber in Baikunthanagar, under the jurisdiction of Baidyanathpur police station.

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According to eyewitnesses, two unidentified bike-borne assailants fired two rounds at Panda from close range, fatally wounding him in the chest. Locals rushed him to MKCG Medical College and Hospital, where doctors declared him dead on arrival.

Condolences have poured in from across Odisha, with leaders from various parties expressing grief and solidarity with Panda’s family. Local police, on the other hand, have launched a full-scale investigation into the murder.

Who is Pitabas Panda?

Panda, a member of the Odisha State Bar Council, had a long and distinguished career in both law and politics. He began his political journey with the CPI, later joining the Congress where he served as state spokesperson and editor, and held responsibilities within INTUC.

In 2024, he switched allegiance to the BJP and quickly rose to prominence, actively participating in election campaigns and voicing strong opinions on corruption and governance issues in Berhampur and Ganjam district.

Known for his fearless advocacy and legal acumen, Panda handled several high-profile criminal cases and was vocal against alleged irregularities in municipal operations. His assassination has sparked outrage among legal professionals and political leaders across the state. The All Odisha Lawyers Association has called for a statewide court boycott on October 8 in protest.

Senior police officials, including South Range IG Niti Shekhar, have launched an investigation. CCTV footage is being examined, though the motive behind the murder remains unclear.

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