Bhubaneswar: A crucial Test Identification (TI) parade was conducted on Saturday inside Berhampur Circle Jail, marking a significant development in the investigation into the murder of lawyer and BJP leader Pitabash Panda, who was shot dead near his home on October 6.
The TI parade, involving eight accused persons, was held with court permission and under the supervision of a judicial magistrate. Officials said the process was vital, as the case hinges on whether eyewitnesses can accurately identify any of the suspects.
Investigators believe the exercise could provide a major breakthrough. During the procedure, witnesses were required to pick out suspects from a lineup of individuals of similar appearance — a method designed to ensure fairness and remove any possibility of bias. Successful identification, officials noted, would substantially strengthen the prosecution’s case and help establish the direct role of the accused in the killing.
Pitabash Panda, an advocate and prominent BJP leader, was fatally shot outside his residence on the night of October 6, sending shockwaves through the legal community. The brutal attack raised suspicions of organised involvement, prompting an intensive police probe that has since resulted in multiple arrests.
With Saturday’s TI parade completed, investigators remain optimistic that the results will offer a clearer understanding of the sequence of events and reinforce the legal framework of the case. The findings will be submitted to the court shortly, marking an important step forward in the pursuit of justice for Pitabash Panda.
