The controversy surrounding the murder of former Odisha Health Minister Naba Das has intensified, with BJP MLA Jayanarayan Mishra launching a scathing attack on former Crime Branch IG Arun Bothra.
Mishra alleged that the investigation was deliberately misdirected to protect high-profile individuals involved in the case.
“Real Conspirators Shielded,” Says Mishra
Speaking to the media on Monday, Mishra claimed that a proper investigation would have exposed powerful individuals whose involvement could have led to serious repercussions. Instead, he accused the investigating team of manipulating the probe to shield these influential players.
“There are many influential people who don’t want a proper investigation because if that happens, their heads will roll,” Mishra stated.
Arun Bothra Faces Sharp Criticism
Mishra didn’t hold back from directly criticizing IPS officer Arun Bothra, who led the probe. He accused Bothra of sensationalizing the investigation instead of pursuing the real culprits.
Referring to a specific instance where the Crime Branch claimed to have retrieved a letter that was flushed down a toilet, Mishra questioned the credibility of the evidence.
“How can a paper remain intact after being flushed for three days? The retrieval claim was pure drama with no value,” Mishra remarked.
He further alleged that such theatrics were employed to divert attention from the actual conspirators.
BJP Demands CBI Probe
Renewing his call for an impartial investigation, Mishra demanded that the case be handed over to the CBI. He argued that only an independent national agency could uncover the larger conspiracy behind Naba Das’s assassination.
“I still demand a CBI probe. Only then will the real motive and the people being protected be exposed,” he added.
Ongoing Political Battle
The murder of Naba Das, allegedly by ASI Gopal Das—whom the government claimed was mentally unstable—has remained under the spotlight. The Opposition, particularly the BJP, continues to allege a deep political conspiracy, rejecting the “lone wolf” theory and pressing for a central investigation.
The case continues to fuel political tension in Odisha, with growing demands for accountability and a thorough re-investigation.
