Berhampur, Oct 22: In a dramatic revelation, Berhampur SP Saravana Vivek M has exposed the deep-rooted political, personal, and professional motives behind the high-profile murder of BJP leader and advocate Pitabash Panda.

The investigation, which spanned 17 days, has led to the arrest of 12 individuals, including prominent political figures such as former MLA and Ganjam district president of BJD, Bikram Panda and former Berhampur Mayor Shiv Shankar Dash alias Pintu Dash.

Friends become Foes

According to police, the murder was not a random act of violence but a meticulously planned conspiracy driven by political aspirations and long-standing enmity.

Pitabash Panda, once a close associate of Bikram Panda, had turned into a fierce rival following disagreements during the Bar Council elections. Their relationship soured further as Pitabash allegedly began campaigning against Bikram, vowing to end his political career.

The rivalry intensified on social media, where Bikram suspected Pitabash of orchestrating negative campaigns against him. This personal animosity, coupled with political ambitions, culminated in a deadly plot.

Also read: From Conspiracy to Handcuffs: Inside the Pitabash Panda Murder Plot

Thirst for Power

The conspiracy was allegedly hatched by Bikram Panda and Shiv Shankar Dash, who hoped to reclaim political power.

Following a petition filed by Pintu Dash against sitting MLA K. Anil Kumar, the possibility of a by-election in Berhampur loomed large. Bikram aspired to contest and win the seat, while Pintu hoped to be reinstated as Mayor.

Pintu Dash filed the petition through Manoj Panda, while Bikram was spending all the money for various purposes related to this. Their ambitions for power were reportedly the driving force behind the murder.

Enmity of 12 Years

In 2013, 13 individuals were arrested in connection with the Shanti Mishra murder case. During that time, Pitabash had represented one of the accused in court and successfully secured his bail.

After being released, the accused allegedly made three attempts to assassinate Pintu Dash. Since then, Pintu believed that Pitabash Panda was responsible for him being denied a party ticket for the MLA position.

Currently, there are 38 criminal cases registered against Pintu Dash. During the 2024 general elections, he was jailed for attacking Berhampur MP candidate Pradeep Panigrahy.

Case at a Glance

On October 6, Pitabash was shot dead near his residence. The assailants greeted him to confirm his identity before opening fire. After the murder, they fled, disposing of weapons, clothes, and the bike used in the crime.

Police have recovered two firearms and technical evidence linking Bikram Panda to the criminal conspiracy. Three accused, including Uma Bishoyi, remain absconding. SP Vivek stated that further arrests will shed more light on the case.

The investigation also uncovered business disputes between Pitabash and associates of Bikram Panda, including Sudarshan Jena and Madan Dalai. These tensions added another layer to the motive behind the murder.

Berhampur police continue their manhunt for the remaining accused. SP Vivek emphasized that once all fugitives are apprehended, the full extent of the conspiracy will be revealed.