After five years of unanswered questions surrounding the death of panchayat officer Smitarani Biswal in Jajpur district, Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Majhi has announced a fresh investigation. The incident, which involved her body being found in a guesthouse, sparked public outrage and accusations against the previous BJD government. Majhi claims that BJD leaders were implicated in her death and vowed to pursue justice for Biswal, responding to calls from her husband for the case to be reopened. The BJD has dismissed Majhi’s allegations as unfounded, maintaining that they prioritized women’s empowerment and did not cover up any crimes. The case highlights ongoing political tensions in the region.
In a significant development in Odisha, Chief Minister Mohan Majhi has ordered a fresh investigation into the mysterious death of Panchayat Officer Smitarani Biswal, nearly five years after her body was found. Biswal’s lifeless body was discovered hanging from the ceiling of a guesthouse in Jajpur district on October 16, 2019, which sparked widespread public outrage.
During a gathering in Barchana, Chief Minister Majhi accused the previous Biju Janata Dal (BJD) government of being involved in her death. He stated that Biswal, who was dedicated to her duties, was reportedly coerced by some BJD leaders and ultimately killed. Majhi emphasized that justice would be pursued for Biswal, following a request from her husband to reopen the case.
The BJD party, represented by Rajya Sabha member Sulata Deo, challenged Majhi’s claims, asserting that they are unfounded and that the Naveen Patnaik government has prioritized women’s empowerment and development. Additionally, Majhi criticized the previous BJD administration for neglecting Jajpur over the years.
The tragic death of Smitarani Biswal has remained a point of contention, with her husband alleging that she was raped and murdered. In the past, the BJP called for a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) inquiry into the case, which the earlier BJD government had classified as a suicide based on post-mortem findings. With Majhi’s announcement, the case is set to receive renewed scrutiny as the quest for truth and justice continues.
Tags: Smitarani Biswal, Mohan Majhi, Jajpur, BJD, Odisha, Panchayat Officer death, fresh investigation, public outrage, women empowerment, BJP.
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What is the recent decision by CM Mohan Majhi regarding the panchayat officer’s death?
CM Mohan Majhi ordered a new investigation into the death of a panchayat officer to ensure that the case is thoroughly examined. -
Why is there a need for a fresh probe into the officer’s death?
A fresh probe is needed because there may be unanswered questions and concerns about the circumstances surrounding the officer’s death. -
Who is responsible for carrying out this new investigation?
Local police or investigative agencies will handle the new investigation as directed by the Chief Minister. -
What was the public reaction to the CM’s order?
The public has shown interest and support for the CM’s decision, hoping it will bring justice and clarity about the officer’s death. - When can we expect updates about the new investigation?
Updates are likely to be shared by the authorities as the investigation progresses, though a specific timeline may not be provided.
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