Mystery shrouds death of Russian lawmaker Pavel Antov at hotel in Odisha’s Rayagada

Bhubaneswar: Mystery has deepened in the case of death of foreigner Pavel Antov at a hotel in Odisha’s Rayagada district as he has now been identified as a Russian lawmaker and philanthropist.

As per police, he was found dead after allegedly falling from the third floor window of the hotel on December 24. The incident took place while the millionaire was on vacation and celebrating his 65th birthday.

Antov had recently criticised Russian attack on Ukraine, but later retracted the statement, as per media reports.

Incidentally, Antov’s death took place two days post his 62-year-old friend Vladimir Videnov’s demise, who was also staying in the same room and died after falling ill.

The unnatural death of the two Russians has sent shockwaves across the district.

According to reports, Antov, Videnov, a Russian couple and tourist guide Jitendra Singh had come to visit south Odisha districts. All of them checked into the hotel on December 21.

Next morning, Videnov fell sick and was rushed to the Rayagada District Headquarters Hospital where he was declared dead.

Antov was reportedly upset after the death of his friend.

The couple and the tourist guide were being questioned by police in connection with the case.

On the other hand, Odisha DGP Sunil Bansal said the Crime Branch will assist district police in the investigation. If required, the agency will take over the probe of the case, the top cop added.