BJP leader shot dead in Berhampur

With deep sorrow and profound anger, I share the shocking news that a respected lawyer, Sj. Pitabas Panda, an eminent figure of the legal fraternity and member of the Odisha State Bar Council, was brutally attacked and shot dead by miscreants in Berhampur.

This heinous act is not only a murder of an individual, but a direct assault on the justice system and the rule of law. Such barbaric violence against a lawyer in his own locality exposes the complete breakdown of law and order in the region. 

This is unacceptable, outrageous and this demands immediate and decisive action.

I strongly urge and appeal to the Hon'ble Chief Minister of Odisha, the Home Secretary, DGP Odisha, DIG Southern Range, and SP Ganjam to act swiftly and ensure the immediate arrest of all culprits involved in this cold-blooded murder.

This is not just a matter of individual safety, it is a question of justice, democracy, and the safety of every legal professional in the state.

The legal community stands united in grief and anger. We will not remain silent.

Justice must be served, swiftly and without compromise.

As a mark of protest and in solidarity with the departed soul, I appeal to all lawyers across Odisha and members of the legal fraternity to abstain from court work on 8.10.2025 (Wednesday).

This statewide abstention is a message that the legal community will not tolerate such lawlessness and will stand united against any attack on its members.

We demand immediate justice and protection for all legal professionals in the state.

Gyana Ranjan Mohanty

Advocate, Member – Odisha State Bar Council

Chairman – All Odisha Lawyers Association