In a shocking revelation that has rattled Odisha’s legal community, the post-mortem report of slain BJP leader and lawyer Pitabas Panda confirms he was shot at point-blank range with a 9 mm pistol. The bullet entered his right chest, pierced vital organs, and lodged near his spine, causing catastrophic internal damage.
Details from the Autopsy
Conducted late Monday night at the Forensic Medicine and Toxicology (FMT) department, the autopsy revealed that the 9 mm projectile exited near Panda’s spinal cord, highlighting the assailants’ precision. “The wound track indicates a close-range, execution-style killing,” said sources familiar with the investigation.
The Fatal Attack
Panda, a prominent State Bar Council member, was ambushed around 10 pm on Monday near his residence in Baikunthanathpur’s main lane. Two helmeted men on a motorcycle fired a single shot into his chest and fled. Panda collapsed unconscious and was rushed to MKCG Medical College in Brahmapur, where he was declared dead on arrival. The single bullet caused irreversible internal damage, leaving no chance of survival.
Investigation and Public Outcry
Police are scrutinizing CCTV footage and conducting raids, but the motive remains unclear. Rumors of political rivalry circulate, yet no arrests have been made.
The brazen attack in a busy neighbourhood has ignited widespread public anger. Residents voiced outrage, saying, “If lawyers aren’t safe in broad streets, what hope for common people?” Bar associations across Odisha have called for a statewide shutdown, demanding swift justice and enhanced security measures. Protests continue as the state mourns the loss of a vocal advocate silenced forever.