Soumya Mahapatra Death Case / Former DFO Sangram Behera Sent to Jail in ACF Death Case

Paralakhemundi, July 27: Former Divisional Forest Officer (DFO) Sangram Behera was sent to jail on Monday after the District and Sessions Court, Paralakhemundi rejected his bail plea in the Assistant Conservator of Forest (ACF) Soumya Ranjan Mahapatra death case. Behera had surrendered before the Paralakhemundi SDJM Court earlier in the day.

The case has seen multiple twists since Mahapatra’s mysterious death in 2021. The Crime Branch, which initially investigated the matter, had given Behera a clean chit, but the SDJM Court refused to accept the closure report. Subsequently, the trial court issued summons against Mahapatra’s wife Bidyabharati, Behera, and cook Manmath Kumbha to face trial under Section 302 (murder) and Section 120B (criminal conspiracy) of the IPC.

The accused challenged the summons before the Orissa High Court, but their petitions were dismissed. The High Court directed them to appear before the trial court, reinforcing the seriousness of the charges. In October 2025, the High Court also rejected Behera’s anticipatory bail plea, paving the way for proceedings before the lower court.

Also Read: Accused Sangram Behera Surrenders Before Trial Court in ACF Soumyaranjan Mahapatra Death Case

Legal experts said the rejection of bail underscores the gravity of the allegations and the need for a thorough trial. The case has drawn widespread attention, with family members and activists demanding justice and accountability.

Authorities believe Behera’s surrender and subsequent judicial custody will accelerate the trial process. The case continues to highlight systemic concerns within the forest department and has reignited public debate over workplace harassment and accountability in government service.

The trial court is expected to proceed with framing charges against the accused, with the Crime Branch tasked to assist in evidence presentation. The development marks a crucial stage in one of Odisha’s most high-profile legal battles in recent years