Cuttack, June 16: The investigation into the death of medical student Chandrika Bhanjbala Hembrom has gathered pace, with a team from Baranga Police travelling to Mayurbhanj district to record statements from her family members and collect crucial evidence related to the case.
The police team visited Chandrika's ancestral home at Raidandia-Tilabani village under Udala police station limits and conducted extensive questioning of her family members. Investigators are particularly examining the circumstances surrounding Chandrika's relationship with Bhimsen Tudu and the developments that reportedly followed the entry of another woman into his life.
According to sources, a four-member team from Baranga Police first reached Chandrika's residence on Sunday evening and questioned family members until late at night. The team returned on Monday morning for another round of interrogation, recording statements from Chandrika's father, mother, uncle, aunt and cousin Rashmita.
Police reportedly sought details regarding the family's suspicions, concerns and any evidence they may have relating to Chandrika's death. Investigators focused on several aspects, including Chandrika's relationship with Bhimsen, the alleged deterioration in their relationship, the possible involvement of Bhimsen's new companion, and reports regarding a missing personal diary believed to contain important information.
Sources said police spent more than four hours collecting information and recording individual statements before returning from Udala. Investigators are now piecing together various leads and evidence gathered during the inquiry.
Police sources indicated that Bhimsen's alleged new companion has not been ruled out in the investigation. If required, she may be summoned for questioning. Chandrika's mother, in her complaint, had reportedly held both Bhimsen and his alleged new companion responsible for her daughter's death, prompting investigators to examine all angles before reaching any conclusions.
Meanwhile, police are continuing to collect CCTV footage tracing Chandrika's movements after she arrived in Bhubaneswar on June 3. Investigators have learned that she visited several locations in Bhubaneswar before travelling by auto-rickshaw to Trisulia Square. CCTV footage reportedly shows her getting off the vehicle and walking towards Netaji Bridge.
The police are also probing allegations that Bhimsen had pressured Chandrika regarding her skin complexion. Investigators are verifying whether there is any evidence to support claims of colour-based discrimination. Sources said that if sufficient evidence emerges, additional legal provisions related to discriminatory conduct could be considered during the course of the investigation.
Officials maintained that the inquiry remains underway and that greater clarity regarding the circumstances surrounding Chandrika's death is expected after further examination of evidence, witness statements and digital records.
Police have not yet reached any final conclusion and continue to investigate all possible angles in the case
