A shocking incident unfolded in Nuapada on Sunday night when Pooja Panda, wife of senior BJD leader Harischandra Panda, was found dead.
The 35-year-old woman was discovered hanging near her residence in Matagudipada, Ward 4, around 8:30 p.m.
Local police reached the site quickly and took control of the situation. Additional SP Ranjit Naik and Nuapada IIC Gangadhar Meher arrived at the scene by 9 p.m. They moved the body to the district headquarters hospital for autopsy later that night.
Family members alleged that Pooja Panda tied her scarf to a branch of a bel tree outside her home and ended her life. The reason behind her decision remains unclear. Police have started an investigation to determine the circumstances surrounding the incident.
The tragic death drew a large crowd, including political leaders and prominent personalities, who gathered to express condolences. The community reacted with shock, and many extended sympathy to the bereaved family.
Harischandra Panda, once associated with the BJP, joined the BJD before the Nuapada by-election. He is the nephew of former Kalahandi MP Basant Panda. The sudden death of his wife has left the family and political circles in deep sorrow.
Authorities confirmed that the autopsy would take place on Monday at the district hospital. The investigation continues as police seek clarity on the cause of the tragedy.
