Paralakhemundi, Jul 29: The legal proceedings in the death case of Assistant Conservator of Forests (ACF) Soumya Ranjan Mohapatra have taken a significant turn with the arrest and judicial custody of former Paralakhemundi Divisional Forest Officer (DFO) and current OFDC Director (Commercial) Sangram Keshari Behera. His incarceration has intensified scrutiny on the remaining accused, with legal experts suggesting that further action against them could follow in the coming days.

The trial court has formally taken cognisance of the case against three accused—Sangram Keshari Behera, cook Manmath Kumbh, and Soumya Ranjan's wife Bidyabharati Mohapatra. All three have been charged under Section 302 (murder) and Section 120B (criminal conspiracy) of the Indian Penal Code. The case has remained under close public and legal scrutiny since the mysterious death of the young forest officer.

According to court records, none of the accused had appeared before the trial court after April 12, 2023. As a result, the court issued Non-Bailable Warrants (NBWs) against Sangram Behera and cook Manmath Kumbh. Following Behera's arrest and his transfer to the Paralakhemundi Sub-Jail, police have intensified efforts to trace and arrest Manmath Kumbh, who continues to remain absconding despite the warrant issued against him.

Meanwhile, Bidyabharati Mohapatra, who is currently serving as a Livestock Inspector in another district, had also been directed by the court to appear in person. She had filed a petition under Section 205 of the Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC) seeking exemption from personal appearance on account of her government service. However, the trial court rejected her plea. Challenging that decision, she has approached the High Court. The development was confirmed by advocate Rajat Patra, who is representing Soumya Ranjan Mohapatra's family in the case.

Officials confirmed that Sangram Keshari Behera has been lodged in Cell No. 3 of the Paralakhemundi Jail. Jail authorities stated that he has been provided regular prison meals, including breakfast, lunch, and dinner, consisting of rice, dal, and vegetables. Jail Superintendent Kamakshya Prasad Pati confirmed that Behera is being treated in accordance with standard prison regulations.

The latest developments have also revived questions over the earlier investigations conducted by the local police and the Crime Branch. Legal observers and members of Soumya Ranjan's family have alleged inconsistencies in both investigation reports, claiming that critical aspects of the sensitive case were overlooked or inadequately examined. The allegations have reignited debate over the handling of the investigation and whether attempts were made to suppress crucial evidence.

The death of ACF Soumya Ranjan Mohapatra, who suffered severe burn injuries at his official residence in Paralakhemundi in July 2021 before succumbing during treatment, remains one of Odisha's most high-profile and controversial cases. With the commencement of trial proceedings and the arrest of a senior forest officer, the case has once again come into the spotlight, with all eyes now on the court proceedings and the action against the remaining accused.