GLOBIVOX

The Incident: Sudden Attack Shakes Berhampur

On a quiet evening in Berhampur, tragedy struck when Pitabash Panda, a prominent BJP leader and senior advocate, was gunned down by two assailants riding a motorcycle. According to eyewitnesses, the attackers approached Panda’s residence and opened fire before fleeing the scene. Emergency services were called immediately, but Panda succumbed to his injuries before he could be moved to a hospital.

Local residents described chaotic scenes as neighbors rushed to help and the police cordoned off the area. “It happened so fast,” said one witness. “There was panic everywhere. People were screaming, and nobody could believe this happened in our neighborhood.”

Immediate Response: Police Launch Manhunt

The Berhampur police have launched a citywide manhunt for the two suspects, with multiple checkpoints and roadblocks established to prevent escape. Law enforcement agencies are also reviewing CCTV footage from nearby streets to identify the assailants and track their movements.

Authorities have called for calm while the investigation proceeds, assuring the public that those responsible will be brought to justice swiftly. Senior officials have personally taken charge of the probe, reflecting the high-profile nature of the case.

Who Was Pitabash Panda?

Pitabash Panda was a respected senior advocate and an influential figure in Odisha’s BJP unit. Known for his legal acumen and active involvement in political affairs, Panda had been a vocal participant in local and state-level politics for years. His work often involved representing prominent cases in the region and advising political initiatives.

Colleagues and party members have expressed profound grief at his sudden demise. BJP leaders described him as a dedicated leader committed to public service, highlighting his contributions to both law and politics.

Political and Public Reactions

The killing has sparked widespread condemnation across political parties and civil society. BJP officials have called the attack “an attack on democracy and rule of law”, demanding immediate action against the perpetrators.

Social media in Odisha has been flooded with tributes and expressions of outrage. Citizens have expressed shock over the brazen nature of the attack, occurring in broad daylight near Panda’s residence. Local business associations and bar councils have also condemned the murder, emphasizing the need for increased security for public figures and legal professionals.

Possible Motives and Investigation

While the investigation is ongoing, police have not ruled out several possible motives, including political rivalry, personal enmity, or disputes related to Panda’s legal work. Authorities are interrogating known associates and reviewing Panda’s recent cases and political activities to establish a lead.

The swift and coordinated police response reflects the seriousness of the case, with special teams deployed to ensure rapid progress in apprehending the culprits.

Safety of Public Figures: A Growing Concern

The murder of Pitabash Panda underscores the risks faced by political leaders and public figures in India, particularly those involved in high-stakes legal and political matters. Security experts emphasize the need for personal security protocols, regular risk assessments, and rapid emergency response systems to prevent such attacks.

The incident has reignited discussions on the protection of politicians and lawyers in the state, highlighting vulnerabilities in urban areas even in supposedly secure residential neighborhoods.

Final Thoughts

The assassination of Pitabash Panda is a tragedy for Berhampur, Odisha, and Indian politics. Beyond the personal loss to his family and colleagues, it raises urgent questions about safety, political rivalry, and law enforcement preparedness.

As the police intensify their search, the public watches anxiously, hoping that the perpetrators are quickly brought to justice and that Berhampur can recover from the shock of this violent incident.