Former Odisha MLA Bikram Panda was rushed to MKCG Medical College and Hospital in Berhampur on Sunday after he complained of severe abdominal pain while lodged at Berhampur Jail. Officials said he was shifted to the hospital under strict security arrangements for medical treatment.
Panda is currently in judicial custody in connection with the murder of advocate Pitabas Panda. According to reports, he suffers from piles and experienced pain in the lower abdomen. He was initially treated inside the jail before doctors referred him to MKCG Medical College and Hospital for further evaluation.
At the hospital, Panda was first admitted to the medicine ward, where doctors indicated that surgical intervention might be required. He was later shifted to the surgery ward, and an ultrasound examination was advised as part of the diagnostic process. At the time of filing this report, Panda was undergoing treatment.
Official sources said Panda had gall bladder stones at the time of his arrest and also suffers from high blood pressure and other health-related ailments. Jail authorities have instructed hospital officials to ensure that he receives all necessary medical care.
Reacting to the development, Bikram Panda alleged that he has been falsely implicated in the case due to political rivalry. He claimed that the case was aimed at defaming him and his party, the BJD, and expressed confidence in the judiciary to deliver justice. One of his supporters also echoed similar allegations, stating that Panda was framed to tarnish his image and political standing.