Deepali Das pushes for CBI investigation into father Naba Das’s murder

Bhubaneswar, Jan 19: Former Jharsuguda MLA Deepali Das, daughter of late Minister Naba Das, announced her intention to formally request a CBI investigation into her father's murder, which occurred in January 2023.

Speaking to the media, Deepali stated, “I have urged the government and the Chief Minister to initiate a CBI probe into this case. Our family is deliberating over the investigation, and we plan to submit a written request to the State government. If the government genuinely respects my father’s legacy and handles this matter sensitively, I strongly urge them to proceed with the CBI inquiry.”

She further assured full cooperation with the investigation, adding, “We will do whatever is necessary to assist the investigation.”

Deepali’s remarks came following new revelations from forensic reports, which indicated the involvement of multiple guns in the attack on the former Health Minister. According to the forensic analysis, aside from the prime accused, Gopal Das, other individuals were likely involved. The report highlighted that while one bullet fatally struck Naba Das, five additional bullets hit a government vehicle accompanying the convoy.

The tragic incident took place on January 29, 2023, in Brajrajnagar, Jharsuguda district, when Naba Das was shot, allegedly by police ASI Gopal Das. The Minister succumbed to his injuries at a private hospital in Bhubaneswar. Gopal Das was arrested on January 30, and the case was initially handed over to the State Crime Branch for investigation.