Argus News - Pitabash Panda Murder Case: Pintu Das Allowed E-Meeting Rights After Wife’s Petition

Berhampur, Nov 13: In a significant development related to the Pitabash Panda murder case, the SDJM Court in Berhampur has directed jail authorities to ensure all facilities are provided to accused Siba Shankar Das, also known as Pintu Das, the former Mayor of Berhampur.

Pintu is currently lodged in Phulbani Circle Jail.

The directive came after Pintu’s wife, Ashalata Das, filed a petition requesting better food, regular health check-ups, and permission for e-meetings with family members. The court, after hearing the plea, instructed the jail authorities to comply with the jail manual and facilitate e-interactions between Pintu and his family.

Pintu was initially held in Berhampur jail following his arrest by Berhampur police in connection with the Pitabash Panda murder case. However, citing threats to his life from inmates linked to his previous cases, jail officials filed a petition seeking his transfer. The court approved the request and ordered his relocation to Phulbani jail.

Also read: Pitabash Panda Murder Case: Ballistic Test Ordered on Seized Pistols

Later, Ashalata Das filed another petition requesting that Pintu be shifted to a jail within Ganjam district for easier access. The court sought status reports from various jails in the district, including Bhanjanagar, but found none suitable for safe custody. As a result, the court upheld the decision to keep him in Phulbani jail.

Due to the remote location of Phulbani jail, physical visits by family members became difficult. Ashalata then requested permission for e-meetings, which the court has now granted. Jail authorities have been instructed to facilitate virtual interactions in accordance with the jail manual.

This ruling ensures that Pintu Das receives proper care and maintains contact with his family while in custody, aligning with legal provisions and human rights standards.