Newly-wed woman ‘killed’ over dowry harassment in Cuttack, family demands justice

In a distressing case reported from Odisha’s Cuttack, a young bride, married just 1.5 years ago was allegedly killed by her husband and in-laws after she failed to fulfill their dowry demands. Despite being given dowry to the tune of Rs 5 lakh during marriage, they allegedly continued to harass the bride for more dowry, alleged family members of the deceased.

After she failed to fulfill their demands, they killed her, family members alleged. The shocking incident has been reported from Samantarapur village in Cuttack district. Based on a complaint by the woman’s family, police have registered a case and a probe into the incident is on.

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Allegations of Dowry Harassment

According to sources, the deceased Situ Pradhan from Rangadaspur village was married to Rajendra Swain on 10 December 2023. Situ's family asserts that her husband and in-laws persistently harassed her over dowry demands. Despite providing Rs 5 lakh initially, they claim that the demands of Rajendra and his family continued, leading to unbearable pressure on Situ in the marital home.

Suspicious Circumstances

Later, Situ was found dead under mysterious circumstances on Thursday night. However, her family has alleged that she was murdered. They reported speaking to her only hours before her death, indicating she was in distress. A formal complaint has been filed at the local police station, citing murder suspicions.

Police Investigation Underway

The local police, aided by a scientific team, have launched a thorough investigation into the case. Situ's remains have been sent for post-mortem at Cuttack Medical College, under the supervision of the Sub-Divisional Magistrate.

Currently, Rajendra Swain is in police custody for questioning. The whereabouts of his family remain unknown, as they are reported to be absconding.

“We rushed to the village after getting information, only to find our daughter already dead. They had killed her and put her body on a cot. We want justice. Now, her in-laws are gone into hiding,” alleged Manjulata Pradhan, aunt of the deceased.

Additional Tehsildar Ranjan Kumar Nayak said, “We have recovered the body and a thorough probe into the incident is on. The IIC along with his police team is leading the case. Post-mortem report will reveal details about the case.”