Seven years on, Patnagarh parcel bomb victims await justice

Today marks seven years since the harrowing incident that occurred at Bholanathpada locality in Patnagarh of Odisha's Bolangir district, where a parcel bomb exploded capturing national attention. The victims of the incident still await justice.

Also Read: Wedding Gift Blast: New clues lead cops to Bhawanipatna

This tragic incident occurred on this day in 2018, taking the lives of newly-wed engineer Soumyasekhar Sahu, and his grandmother Jemamani. His bride, Reema Rani, fortunately survived but left with grievous injuries.

The case, which has intrigued many across the country, was dissected by Odisha Crime Branch. English lecturer Punjilal Meher had emerged as the lone accused and was subsequently arrested. He has been lodged in custody and is currently in Bolangir jail as legal proceedings continue.

Patnagarh parcel bomb – the trial

As the trial progresses, the judiciary has completed hearing all testimonies from witnesses prepared by the Crime Branch. Attention is now shifting towards gathering statements from the defence counsel. It is widely anticipated that the final verdict, expected within a month or two, will determine whether Punjilal will be convicted or not.

Even as the police have provided protection to Soumyasekhar’s family members, his wife Reema previously expressed that she is losing faith in the police and the Odisha government. “My husband’s soul won’t rest in peace until his murderer is punished,” Reema had said, adding, “Punjilal is yet to be punished. I hope justice is not denied anymore.”

Wedding gift blast: Allegations & counter allegations

Allegedly, Punjilal is the mastermind of the entire incident involving the parcel bomb. He allegedly hatched the conspiracy to settle personal scores with Sanjukta, the mother of deceased Soumyashekhar, after she took over charge as new Principal of the college in Bhainsa.

Must Read: Wedding gift blast: Bereaved newlywed Reema will stay with in-laws

However, Punjilal’s wife Soudamini refuted the allegations. “My husband is innocent; he can never commit such a crime. It is a conspiracy against my husband by the Crime Branch as they were not able to catch the main culprit,” Soudamini had said.