Maoist Leader Sabyasachi Panda Wants To Seek MA
Sabyasachi Panda, a prominent Maoist leader currently serving a life sentence in Odisha’s Berhampur Circle Jail, has expressed his desire to pursue a Master’s degree in Public Administration. Panda, who had previously completed his Bachelor’s degree from Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) two years ago, is one of six inmates who have submitted documents to enroll in the two-year MA (Public Administration) correspondence course offered by the Odisha State Open University (OSOU).
The six applicants include four convicts, including the 55-year-old Panda, and two undertrials. The application documents were submitted through the Berhampur Circle Jail, where senior superintendent DN Barik confirmed the interest of the inmates in the correspondence course.
Sanatan Khillar, a teacher at the jail, mentioned that after admission, study materials would be provided to the inmates, allowing them to independently prepare for their exams. Panda has been incarcerated since his arrest on July 18, 2014, and is facing charges in over 130 Maoist-related cases across different districts. He was sentenced to life imprisonment by a local court for waging war against the nation. Despite his legal challenges, Panda’s interest in further education demonstrates his intent to continue his academic pursuits while in prison.
