Bhubaneswar, Feb 12: The investigation into the sensational murder of senior advocate and BJP leader Pitabas Panda has taken a dramatic turn, with the police chargesheet revealing an alleged blackmail motive behind the crime.

According to details mentioned in the chargesheet, Pitabas Panda was allegedly blackmailing former BJD MLA Bikram Panda using certain objectionable photographs. He had reportedly threatened to make the photos public, which, investigators believe, triggered the conspiracy leading to his murder.

Police sources said a pen drive containing the controversial images was recovered during the probe. The device was reportedly found inside a secret chamber in Pitabas Panda’s residence. Investigators claim the material stored in it was being used as leverage to pressure the former legislator.

Bikram Panda’s lawyer stated that a key piece of evidence — a special key — was seized during the investigation. Using this key, police opened the concealed chamber in the presence of Bikram Panda’s wife, Sushmita Panda, where the pen drive was discovered.

However, the defence has raised questions, noting that despite its significance, the pen drive has not yet been produced before the court. Further investigation and legal proceedings are continuing.

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