Odisha woman attempts self-immolation at collector’s camp

A shocking incident unfolded in Banki on Monday during the public grievance hearing camp conducted by the Cuttack District Collector. A woman, distressed over the alleged non-receipt of government benefits following her husband’s death, poured petrol on herself in an attempt to set herself on fire.

According to the woman, she had repeatedly approached various administrative offices seeking assistance under the schemes meant for widows and dependent families. Despite running from pillar to post for months, she claimed her pleas had been ignored. Overcome with frustration, she broke down before the District Collector, poured petrol over herself and tearfully pleaded for justice.

“My husband passed away two years ago. Since then, I have approached every authority from the Tehsildar to the BDO seeking help and support. I have visited the District Collector twice, met the Sub-Collector and submitted applications, yet my case is still unheard. My request for family benefit has even been rejected, despite all my documents being completely correct. I have been subjected to mental harassment and constant distress throughout this process. I have faced immense hardship, but still no one is willing to help me,” said the woman who filed the complaint.

District Collector Responds

Reacting to the incident, District Collector Dattatreya Bhausaheb Shinde stated that certain issues in her application had caused delays, but those problems have now been resolved. He assured that the woman would receive immediate support and the benefits she is entitled to.

“They had applied for this benefit seven months ago. The issue is related to the NFPC assistance we provide. This support is meant for dependants who are capable of working after the primary earner passes away. In this case, the wife and son are living at her father’s house, while the deceased man's mother continues to live alone in their home. The dispute arose because there is no one to take care of the mother of the deceased, and she is left to herself. The legal heir certificate had not been prepared until now. It has finally been completed, and all parties have agreed that if the benefits are divided among the three eligible family members, they will accept the arrangement.” said Dattatreya Bhausaheb Shinde, District Collector of Cuttack.