Bhubaneswar: The capital of Odisha is facing increasing scrutiny over law and order following a shooting in Sishupalgarh, which resulted in the death of a local JCB contractor. This incident, fueled by a financial disagreement and alcohol consumption among friends, has brought attention to a disturbing rise in criminal activity in the city, which was further highlighted by two additional incidents reported on Wednesday.
Family members identified the victim as 25-year-old Tapan Nayak, who resided in Sitaram Basti under the Khandagiri police jurisdiction. He had left home the previous night with ₹60,000 for work-related expenses. Around midnight, he was in Sishupalgarh socializing with acquaintances and former colleagues. He had been in touch with his family until about 12:30 am, even having a video call with his wife to reassure her that all was well. However, a sudden dispute arose regarding financial matters, during which the main suspect, Umesh Jena, allegedly shot Nayak. To mislead law enforcement, Jena reportedly placed the critically injured Nayak in a vehicle and transported him to Capital Hospital. Despite his transfer to another medical facility, Nayak succumbed to his injuries near the Mausi Maa Chhak overbridge.
Upon receiving the news, Bhubaneswar DCP Saravana Vivek M and special task forces arrived at the location. Five individuals from Sishupalgarh were detained for questioning. The primary suspect was escorted back to the crime scene this morning under heavy police presence to facilitate a detailed reconstruction of the incident and to locate the weapon, which was eventually retrieved from the nearby Gangua canal with assistance from the Fire Services.
Authorities are continuing their investigation to clarify the motives behind the shooting and to ascertain the roles of all individuals currently in custody.
Two Additional Disturbing Incidents Shake the City
- 76-Year-Old Woman Murdered by Caretaker in Laxmisagar: Kunjalata Nanda, a 76-year-old woman, was discovered murdered in her two-storey residence located in the Buddhanagar area of Laxmisagar on Wednesday. Initial reports suggest that her caretaker, Balabhadra Maharana, is the prime suspect, having allegedly fled with valuable gold items and a scooter. The police have sent Nanda’s body to Capital Hospital for an autopsy and have initiated a manhunt for the absconding caretaker.
- Decomposed Body Found Near Kelu Charan Park: Adding to the city’s escalating safety worries, a highly decomposed body was uncovered hidden in bushes close to Kelu Charan Park. Local residents alerted law enforcement after detecting a foul odor emanating from the site. Preliminary examinations suggest there may have been an attempt to incinerate the body to destroy evidence and identity. A half-pant found near the remains indicates the victim is male, and efforts are underway to circulate descriptions to local police stations in an attempt to identify him.
