Berhampur, February 10 BJD leader Bikram Kumar Panda, who was arrested in connection with the murder of BJP member Pitabash Panda, was admitted to a hospital in Ganjam district of Odisha on Tuesday after he complained of abdominal pain, officials said.
He was admitted to the MKCG Medical College and Hospital, and initial investigations revealed that he has high blood pressure, diabetes, gallstones, and a fistula, they said.
"He has been admitted to the surgical ward and is receiving treatment," said Durga Madhab Satapathy, the superintendent of the hospital.
Superintendent DN Barik of Berhampur Circle Jail said he was rushed to the medical college at the advice of the jail doctor.
Police said that security in the ward where Panda is admitted has been heightened.
Panda was arrested in the case on November 6.
Two armed men had shot dead the BJP leader from close range near his home in Baikuntha Nagar on October 6.
Police said that 16 people, including some BJD leaders, have been arrested in connection with the murder.