The incident reportedly took place on Friday night after the victim was invited for food and drinks, and a heated argument escalated into a violent assault that resulted in his death, police stated.

The accused, identified as Balaram Das, allegedly killed 42-year-old Bhagirathi Swain during the confrontation. According to RN Pali police, Das invited Swain to his rented accommodation where the two, along with another acquaintance, consumed food and liquor before the situation turned fatal.

Police officials stated that Swain had travelled to Rourkela on Friday for official work. Das and one of his associates hosted him for a feast at Das’s residence. After the third person left, a serious dispute broke out between Das and Swain. During the altercation, Das allegedly kicked Swain in the chest and struck him on the head. The injuries sustained in the assault proved fatal, and Swain died on the spot, said RN Pali IIC Suraj Jhankar.

Preliminary investigation revealed that both men had previously worked for the same pharmaceutical company. Das had earlier held a managerial position but was demoted and transferred to Punjab, a decision he reportedly blamed on Swain. After leaving that company, Das joined another pharmaceutical firm and was posted in Rourkela as a medical representative. Police said he had been nursing resentment against Swain over the past professional dispute, which ultimately led to the violent confrontation.

The accused was taken into custody on Sunday, and further investigation into the circumstances surrounding the murder is underway. Authorities have not yet disclosed additional details regarding the charges to be framed.

According to a recent media report published in The New Indian Express, the incident stemmed from long-standing professional rivalry and escalated after a drunken argument between the two former colleagues.