The Supreme Court has dismissed a petition filed by Bidya Bharati Panda, wife of deceased Assistant Conservator of Forests (ACF) Soumya Ranjan Mohapatra, challenging the continuation of criminal proceedings against her in connection with his 2021 death. The development means the Odisha High Court’s earlier order will remain in force.
High Court Had Directed Appearance
The Supreme Court’s decision comes after the Orissa High Court rejected Bidya Bharati’s plea seeking exemption from personal appearance before the trial court. The High Court had directed her to appear before the trial court by October 1, 2026.
The case is pending before the SDJM court at Paralakhemundi. Earlier proceedings involved allegations under Sections 302 and 120-B of the IPC against Bidya Bharati, former DFO Sangram Keshari Behera and cook Manmath Kumbha. However, the Crime Branch investigation later resulted in a chargesheet against Bidya Bharati under Section 304-A of the IPC, according to reports.
Soumya Ranjan’s Death in 2021
Soumya Ranjan Mohapatra, who was posted as an ACF at Paralakhemundi, suffered severe burn injuries at his official residence in July 2021 and later died. His family alleged that his death involved foul play and named his wife, the then DFO and the cook.
According to the account provided in the case, on the night of July 12, Soumya was near the kitchen when his clothes caught fire. Bidya Bharati reportedly attempted to remove his burning T-shirt and later called for help. The cook then brought water and poured it over him. Soumya was first taken to a health facility in Paralakhemundi and subsequently shifted to Ashwini Hospital in Cuttack.
He died on the morning of July 13 after sustaining extensive burn injuries.
Investigation and Legal Proceedings
The case was investigated by the Odisha Crime Branch after the initial allegations. Court records show that the criminal case pending before the SDJM, Paralakhemundi, arose from the 2021 police case and involved allegations against the accused persons.
With the Supreme Court dismissing Bidya Bharati’s latest plea, the proceedings before the lower court will continue in accordance with the orders already passed by the higher courts. The circumstances surrounding Soumya Ranjan’s death remain the subject of the ongoing judicial proceedings.