Dhenkanal Municipality EO’s Rash Driving Leads to Fatal Pedestrian Accident in Kataka

On a quiet Wednesday night in the Netaji Nagar area of Kataka, the calm was shattered when a Scorpio swooped past at a speed that left onlookers uneasy. The vehicle, allegedly behind the wheel of Dhenkanal Municipality’s Executive Officer Ashwini Kumar Das, clipped a man walking along the road.

The victim was identified as Pradip Parida, a longtime resident of the neighbourhood. Neighbours say he was simply on his way home when the car struck him. The impact was severe; Pradip was gravely injured and barely conscious when the officer, still in his own car, rushed him to SCB Medical College and Hospital.

At the hospital, doctors fought to stabilize him, but despite their efforts Pradip was pronounced dead. What’s more unsettling is that after dropping him off, the Executive Officer fled the scene instead of staying to cooperate with authorities.

A short clip that’s now circulating on social media shows Das driving away, glancing at his phone, and apparently seeking advice on how to “get out of this mess.” The video has sparked outrage, with many demanding a swift, transparent investigation and strict action against any abuse of power.

Local police have opened a case, and the municipal administration is under pressure to hold the officer accountable. Citizens are rallying, posting messages of condolence for Pradip’s family and calling for stricter traffic enforcement to prevent such tragedies in the future.