The Orissa High Court has granted conditional bail to former BJD MLA Bikram Panda in the much-discussed murder case of senior advocate Pitabas Panda.
Bikram Panda, the former MLA from Brahmapur, was arrested on October 22, 2025, in connection with the murder case. His arrest had triggered a political controversy, with leaders from different political parties making statements over the case.
Senior advocate Pitabas Panda was shot dead on October 6, 2025. During the investigation, police arrested 12 people, including former MLA Bikram Panda and former Brahmapur mayor Shiva Shankar Dash, popularly known as Pintu, for their alleged involvement in the conspiracy.
According to police, the murder was allegedly linked to political, business and personal rivalries. Brahmapur SP Dr Saravana Vivek M. had earlier provided details about the investigation and the suspected motives behind the crime.
The investigation later led to the arrest of Sunil Hota, an associate of former MLA Bikram Panda. He was allegedly involved in keeping some of the accused at a farmhouse in Jeypore. Following his arrest, Sunil Hota was produced before the court and sent to jail.
Bikram Panda had also remained in judicial custody following his arrest. A few days ago, he reportedly fell ill while in jail and was taken to the MKCG Medical College and Hospital in Brahmapur for treatment. He underwent medical examination under tight security.
The High Court has now granted Bikram Panda conditional bail in the case. The court’s decision comes as the investigation into the high-profile murder case continues.
The murder of Pitabas Panda had created significant political and public interest in Brahmapur, with the police continuing their investigation into the alleged conspiracy and the roles of the accused.