Berhampur, Odisha : In a shocking incident, senior Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader and lawyer Pitabhas Panda was shot dead late last night in Ganjam district, Odisha.
According to police, two unidentified bike-borne assailants attacked Panda near his residence. He was rushed to MKCG Medical College and Hospital, where doctors declared him brought dead.
Panda, a well-known legal practitioner, had earlier been associated with the Congress party before joining the BJP. His untimely death has sparked concerns over the law and order situation in Odisha, with political leaders and locals demanding swift action against the perpetrators.
Investigation Underway
The police have registered a case and begun an investigation to trace the attackers. Senior officials confirmed that teams are scanning CCTV footage and questioning locals. The motive behind the murder, however, remains unclear.
Concerns Over Rising Violence
The incident has once again put a spotlight on rising crime in Odisha. In recent months, the state has reported several violent crimes, including cases of rape and gang rape, raising questions about public safety and security.
Political observers suggest that Panda’s killing could escalate tensions in the region, particularly with local elections approaching.
