Lawyer’s Murder in Odisha: BCI Demands SIT, Witness Protection and Compensation

The Bar Council of India (BCI) has called for a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to probe the killing of advocate Pitabas Panda, a member of the Odisha State Bar Council, who was shot dead near his home in Berhampur on October 6.

According to reports, Panda was attacked by two assailants on a motorcycle. Media outlets have also mentioned that he was associated with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).

In a statement issued on Tuesday, the BCI strongly condemned the incident and urged the Odisha government to set up an SIT led by a senior Indian Police Service (IPS) officer, independent of the local police station. The team should be given a clear timeline to complete the investigation.

“All perpetrators, conspirators and facilitators must be arrested without delay. Custodial interrogation should be carried out where necessary, and recovery of weapons and digital evidence must be ensured,” the BCI said in its statement.

The Council also directed that any negligence or delay by police officers involved in the local investigation should be immediately reviewed, and errant officials suspended pending inquiry.

The BCI further stressed that the safety and dignity of advocates are non-negotiable, calling for strong witness protection measures for Panda’s family and others connected with the case.

Terming the killing a “direct assault on the independence of the legal profession and the rule of law”, the Council said it represented not just a personal tragedy but a threat to the entire legal community.

The BCI also urged the State to appoint a Special Public Prosecutor of repute and ensure that the charge sheet is filed within the prescribed period, followed by a speedy trial before a designated court. It emphasised the need to implement the Witness Protection Scheme, 2018, including provisions for secure transport, relocation, identity confidentiality, and CCTV surveillance of court premises.

Additionally, the BCI called on the State to strengthen security for lawyers across Odisha, recommending the following immediate measures:

• Issue a statewide security advisory within 48 hours.
• Set up a dedicated helpline or control room for advocate-related threats.
• Conduct a rapid risk audit for Bar leaders who may face intimidation.
• Direct Superintendents of Police to meet local Bar Associations for coordination.
• Ensure CCTV installation or repair in all court complexes and Bar premises.

The BCI also appealed for ex gratia compensation for the family of the slain advocate and suggested that a family member be given a compassionate appointment in government service.

The Council reiterated its stand that violence against members of the legal fraternity must not be tolerated, urging authorities to act decisively to restore the faith of lawyers and the public in the justice system.