NUAPADA, March 30, 2026 (Report- Malaya Meher): A wave of shock and grief has spread across Nuapada district following the tragic death of Puja Panda, the wife of senior BJD leader Harishchandra Panda. The 35-year-old woman was found dead under mysterious circumstances on Sunday night, leaving the local community and political circles in deep mourning. 
Mystery Death of Nuapada BJD Leader's Wife Puja Panda Sparks Investigation


Discovery of the Incident

According to local reports, the incident occurred around 8:30 PM in the Matagudipada area of Ward No. 4. Family members discovered Puja’s body hanging from a bael tree located just outside their residence. They used a scarf to lower her, but she showed no signs of life.
The sudden nature of the event drew a large crowd to the residence. Friends, neighbors, and several local political figures gathered at the spot as news of the tragedy spread through the town.

Police Response and Investigation

Upon receiving the information, the Nuapada police arrived at the scene immediately to secure the area. High-ranking officials, including Additional SP Ranjit Nayak and Nuapada Police Station IIC Gangadhar Meher, reached the location by 9:00 PM to oversee the initial inquiry.
The police have taken the following steps:
  • Securing the Scene: Officers cordoned off the area to collect evidence.
  • Medical Examination: The body was shifted to the District Headquarters Hospital.
  • Autopsy: Officials confirmed that a post-mortem examination was scheduled for Monday to determine the exact cause of death.

Political Significance

The incident has gained significant attention due to the family's high political profile. Harishchandra Panda is a prominent figure in the region. He was previously associated with the BJP but joined the BJD before the Nuapada by-elections. Furthermore, Harishchandra is the son-in-law of Basanta Panda, a former Member of Parliament from Kalahandi.

Seeking Answers

While the family suggests the death may be a case of self-harm, the police have not yet confirmed the motive or the circumstances leading to the event. There is currently no clarity on what might have triggered such a drastic step.
The local authorities have launched a full-scale investigation. They are talking to family members and neighbors to piece together the events of Sunday evening. "We are looking into every angle to find the truth," a police official stated. For now, the entire region remains in a state of solemn silence as they wait for the investigation results.