Wed Oct 08 08:26:54 UTC 2025: Okay, here’s a summary of the provided text followed by a news article rewrite:

**Summary:**

Lawyers across Odisha, India, went on strike on October 8, 2025, to protest the murder of senior advocate and State Bar Council member Pitabas Panda. Panda, a prominent BJP leader, was shot dead in Berhampur two days prior. The Odisha State Bar Council called for the strike, demanding immediate arrest of the perpetrators, compensation for the victim’s family, a high-level inquiry, and the implementation of the Advocate Protection Act. The Chief Minister has condemned the murder and ordered a thorough investigation. The Bar Council of India has also expressed concern and called for a Special Investigation Team. Police have formed multiple teams to investigate the crime.

**News Article:**

**Odisha Lawyers Strike Over Advocate Murder, Demand Justice**

**Bhubaneswar, October 8, 2025** – Lawyers throughout Odisha boycotted court proceedings today in a widespread strike protesting the brutal murder of senior advocate and State Bar Council (SBC) member Pitabas Panda. The strike, organized by the Odisha State Bar Council, saw participation from bar associations across the state.

Panda, a prominent BJP leader, was fatally shot by unknown assailants on Monday night in Berhampur. The SBC is demanding immediate action, including the swift arrest of the perpetrators, adequate compensation for Panda’s family, a high-level inquiry into the incident, and the immediate implementation of the Advocate Protection Act.

“Mr. Panda was elected to the State Bar Council with the highest number of votes,” said SBC President Sitanshu Mohan Dwivedi, emphasizing the gravity of the loss.

Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi has condemned the murder and ordered a thorough investigation, promising exemplary punishment for those responsible. Leader of Opposition Naveen Patnaik has also expressed his condolences.

The Bar Council of India (BCI) has weighed in, demanding the formation of a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to probe the murder. BCI President Manan Kumar Mishra stressed the need for an impartial and transparent investigation, completed in a time-bound manner. The BCI has formally requested the SIT from the Chief Minister, Chief Secretary, and Director General of Police.

While the Orissa High Court Bar Council held a rally and submitted a memorandum to the Cuttack District Collector, the Bhubaneswar Bar Association staged a protest in front of the district and sessions judge court.

Despite 30 hours having passed since the incident, police have yet to identify the killers. However, authorities confirmed a 9mm pistol was used in the shooting. Berhampur police have formed six teams to investigate the crime. Police suspect the involvement of professional criminals. The investigation continues as lawyers across Odisha remain unified in their demand for justice.

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