Anticipatory Bail Denied in High-Profile Odisha Murder Case

Orissa High Court Rejects Bail Pleas of Accused in Soumya Ranjan Mohapatra's Murder, Citing Serious Charges and Evidence Concerns

In a significant ruling, the Orissa High Court has denied anticipatory bail to Sangram Keshari Behera and another accused in connection with the murder of Soumya Ranjan Mohapatra, an Assistant Conservator of Forests in Paralakhemundi. The case, which has garnered widespread attention due to its sensitive nature, involves allegations of murder and criminal conspiracy under Sections 302 and 120-B of the Indian Penal Code (IPC).

The petitioners, including a senior forest officer and a cook, were implicated in a case that has seen various twists, including a controversial dying declaration by the deceased. The court, presided over by Justice V. Narasingh, upheld the cognizance order from the Sub-Divisional Judicial Magistrate (S.D.J.M.), Paralakhemundi, which found sufficient prima facie evidence against the accused.

The case dates back to 2021 when Soumya Ranjan Mohapatra succumbed to severe burn injuries under mysterious circumstances. The initial investigation by the Crime Branch absolved the petitioners, charging only the deceased's wife. However, a protest petition by the deceased's father led to a re-examination of the evidence, resulting in the current charges against the petitioners.

The High Court's decision was influenced by inconsistencies in the dying declaration and other evidence suggesting potential tampering. The court observed discrepancies in the timeline and circumstances of the recorded declaration, raising questions about its authenticity. Additionally, the court noted the absence of critical details, such as certification by the treating doctor on the victim's ability to make a coherent statement despite severe injuries.

The petitioners' counsel argued for anticipatory bail, citing their cooperation with the investigation and lack of direct evidence against them. However, the court, considering the gravity of the charges and the potential risk of the accused influencing the trial, rejected the plea. The court did, however, grant the accused the opportunity to surrender and apply for regular bail, ensuring their applications would be considered without prejudice from the anticipatory bail rejection.

This ruling underscores the court's cautious approach in handling cases with serious allegations and complex evidentiary issues, ensuring that justice is served while safeguarding the integrity of the judicial process.

Bottom Line:

Anticipatory bail denied to the accused persons under Sections 302/120-B IPC due to sufficient prima facie materials and concerns regarding potential shielding of accused in a sensitive murder case.

Statutory provision(s): Sections 302, 120-B of the Indian Penal Code, 1860; Section 438 of the Criminal Procedure Code, 1973

Sangram Keshari Behera v. State of Odisha, (Orissa) : Law Finder Doc Id # 2799313