Odisha woman attempts self-immolation at Dhenkanal SP office; 2 sub-inspectors suspended for ‘negligence’

Tensions ran high at the Dhenkanal Superintendent of Police (SP) office on Saturday after a woman from Ankarantipur village under Dhenkanal Sadar police limits allegedly attempted to take her own life by setting herself on fire, accusing police of ignoring her repeated complaints.

According to sources, the woman arrived at the SP office carrying a bottle of petrol and matchsticks. In full public view, she allegedly attempted to pour petrol on herself and light a match before police officers rushed in and stopped her. The bottle and matchbox were immediately seized.

Grievance Over Mental Harassment

Sources reported that the woman had been approaching both the Sadar police station and the Town police station for the past few days with allegations of mental harassment against a relative.

However, her complaint allegedly went unaddressed as she was directed from one station to another multiple times. Frustrated over the lack of action, she chose the extreme step of attempting self-immolation inside the district police headquarters.

Two Sub-Inspectors Suspended

Dhenkanal SP Abhinav Sonkar, who was present at the spot along with officers from Sadar and Town police stations, took immediate disciplinary action. Two sub-inspectors, Utkal Bijay Mohanty (Town PS) and Rozalin Minj (Sadar PS), were suspended on charges of negligence in duty.

Confirming the suspension, SP Sonkar said a formal inquiry has been launched into the handling of the woman’s complaints and the departmental lapses that followed. He assured that further action would be taken once the probe was complete.

"After hearing her complaints, we have reassured her that the course of the law will be followed and that her grievances will be addressed. She had levelled allegations against one of her relatives, whom she accused of abusing and harassing her. We are currently investigating those claims,” said the Dhenkanal SP.