The brazen daylight killing of lawyer Pitabasa Panda outside the Brahmapur court has sent shockwaves across Ganjam district, prompting police to probe possible links to Bihar. Eleven days after the October 5 ambush, authorities continue to face challenges as the accused remain elusive, raising concerns about rising crime in the region.

Police Investigate Bihar Connection

Berhampur SP Saravana Vivek revealed that police have recovered a country-made pistol and obtained crucial leads in the case. “We will arrest all the suspects soon,” he said, fueling speculation that the gun used may have originated from Bihar.

In a coordinated effort, Brahmapur police have brought two men from Bihar for questioning, while another key suspect, a liquor trader, is under intense interrogation. Authorities are actively tracing cross-border leads to uncover the full plot.

Rivalries and Political Tensions Intensify

The murder follows longstanding tensions, as Panda was a noted informant against land mafias, making him a target within Berhampur’s criminal underbelly. Meanwhile, political violence has flared, with BJP leader Niranjan Jena (alias Kaliya Jena) shot dead by BJD Block Youth Chief Santosh Pattnaik on Thursday in Dhannuntara village.

Pattnaik’s arrest triggered protests, with hundreds of BJD workers storming the police station, accusing authorities of political vendetta and escalating party tensions between BJD and BJP in the district.

Law Enforcement Steps Up Amid Rising Crime

SP Vivek acknowledged the challenges posed by “new-age crimes” in Ganjam, emphasizing that patrolling and intelligence operations have been intensified to curb escalating violence. Courtroom vendettas and party turf wars continue to dominate the district’s law-and-order landscape.

Diwali Approaches Amidst Fear and Uncertainty

As Diwali draws near, residents are praying for peace while authorities strive to bring perpetrators to justice. With cross-border elements suspected and political rivalries intertwined, the coming weeks will test the district administration’s ability to restore law and order

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