Bhubaneswar, Sept 30: The Supreme Court on Wednesday dismissed a petition filed by Bidya Bharati Panda, wife of deceased Assistant Conservator of Forests (ACF) Soumya Ranjan Mohapatra, challenging an order of the Odisha High Court in connection with his death.

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With the apex court declining to intervene, the Odisha High Court’s order will continue to remain in force.

Bidya Bharati had approached the Supreme Court after the High Court refused to quash the criminal proceedings initiated against her in connection with Soumya Ranjan’s death.

What Happened to Soumya Ranjan?

Soumya Ranjan Mohapatra, who was posted as an ACF at Paralakhemundi in Gajapati district, died on July 11, 2021, after suffering severe burn injuries at his official residence.

Following his death, his family alleged that he had been murdered. They named his wife Bidya Bharati, then DFO Sangram Keshari Behera, and cook Manmath Kumbha as accused.

What Did the Investigation Find?

The case was investigated by the Odisha Crime Branch, which treated the incident as an accidental death.

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The Crime Branch subsequently filed a chargesheet against Bidya Bharati under provisions including Sections 285 and 304-A of the Indian Penal Code (IPC).

The latest Supreme Court order means the criminal proceedings against her will continue in accordance with the High Court’s order.