Berhampur, Nov 7: The murder of BJP leader and senior advocate Pitabas Panda has triggered an unprecedented legal showdown here in Odisha, as 209 lawyers have filed vakalatnamas (legal authorization) to represent the victim’s side in the SDJM court, Berhampur, while 53 lawyers have stepped forward in support of the accused.

The case is shaping up to be one of the most high-profile legal battles in recent times in the state, pitting lawyer against lawyer in a courtroom clash over justice and ethics.

Massive Legal Mobilization
The SDJM court in Berhampur witnessed a surge of vakalatnama filings this week. While 53 lawyers had earlier submitted their representation for the accused — Bikram Panda, Malay Bishoyi, and Madan Dalai — the victim’s side responded with overwhelming support, as 209 lawyers pledged to fight for Pitabash Panda.

Senior advocate Raghunath Panigrahi and Nayan Mahapatra expressed concern over the Ganjam Bar Association’s silence and hinted at raising the issue with the state-level legal body. “This is not just a legal matter, it’s a moral one,” said Panigrahi.

Also Read: Pitabash Panda Murder Case: Sharpshooter Kurupati Bhuyan Arrested

Family Reaction and Growing Support
Pitabash Panda’s younger brother, Purnachandra Panda, voiced his disappointment over lawyers siding with the accused, but expressed hope in the growing support from senior advocates. “Many respected lawyers have come forward for my brother. We believe justice will prevail and the guilty will be punished,” he said.

Veteran lawyer Shishir Padhi condemned the lack of empathy among those defending the accused. “A lawyer was murdered. We held pen-down protests, yet some have chosen to defend the accused. Where is the humanity?” he asked. Padhi predicted that the number of lawyers supporting Pitabash could soon cross 1,000.

Courtroom Clash Ahead
With such a large number of legal professionals involved, the case is expected to draw intense public and media attention. The legal fraternity remains divided, and the courtroom is set to become a battleground for justice, ethics, and solidarity.

Ex-MLA among 15 accused Arrested
Pitabash Panda was shot dead in Berhampur on October 6. Former BJD MLA Bikram Panda and 14 others, including ex-Mayor Siba Shankar Das, have been arrested in connection with the murder, sparking widespread outrage and a high-profile legal battle.