International hockey player Birendra Lakra has invited criticism after a man accused Birendra of killing his son Anand Tappo who used to be his close friend. Birendra is alleged to have committed the crime with the help of his girlfriend.
According to a complaint filed by the deceased’s father Bandhana Tappo at Infocity police station, Birendra, his girlfriend Manjit Tete and Anand were living together in a flat under Infocity police limits. They had an argument surrounding Manjit. Birendra and Manjit killed Anand on February 28. However, they gave it the name of a suicide and suppressed the matter.
Meanwhile, Bandhana demanded action against Birendra and Manjit.
Bandhana said, “It would be difficult on part of a father to bear his newly married son’s death. After an argument, Birendra and Manjit had tied Anand’s hands before strangulating him to death at the apartment and termed it suicide.
Bandhana further said, “Anand returned to Bhubaneswar after getting married. The trio (Birendra, Anand and Manjit) was leading a happy life. On February 28, Birendra called me to inform me that Anand committed suicide. When our family members reached the spot, Birendra showed ignorance about the matter. From the prima facie evidence it was clear that Anand was murdered. Sensing Birendra’s hand behind Anand’s death, we went to file a complaint with Infocity police. However, police had not received our complaint. Even after four months, police have failed to unravel the exact reason behind Anand’s death.”
“Had Anand committed suicide, police would have established the reason behind Anand’s committing suicide. Police should clarify the reason behind delaying the investigation”, said Bandhana.
It is learnt that Anand had got married on February 16 and his reception was held on February 18 which was attended by Birendra Lakra. Following the death of Anand, both Birendra and Lakra have stopped residing in the flat.
Security guard Mukesh Mukhi said, “Whatever be the reason behind Anand’s suicide, it should come to the fore.” However, police and Birendra were unavailable to comment on it.
It may be mentioned that the former Indian Hockey Vice-Captain and Olympic Bronze medalist Birendra has joined as Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) in Odisha Police on February 17. Thus, Bandhan is fearful that Birendra may suppress the inquiry once again.