Odisha woman ‘poisoned to death’ in Sambalpur, family alleges dowry harassment

In a disturbing turn of events, a woman in Batagaon under Naktideul Police Station in Sambalpur district was allegedly poisoned to death on November 5, claimed family members. The victim, 27-year-old Swarnalata Dehuri, had reportedly faced continued dowry harassment from her husband and in-laws, raising serious questions about domestic violence.

Marriage That Turned Into a Nightmare!

According to the victim’s family, Swarnalata, who hailed from Podapoda village, married Sanjay Dehuri of Batagaon in 2019. As per reports, what began as a seemingly normal marriage soon escalated into persistent dowry demands. Her husband and mother-in-law allegedly harassed her regularly, pressuring her for additional dowry despite the family's limited means.

Swarnalata’s family members stated that they had approached Naktideul police several times in recent years to lodge complaints. Although the cases were registered, most disputes were reportedly resolved through mutual settlement facilitated at the police station.

Also Read: Woman found dead in Odisha; victim's family alleges dowry torture

Fresh Allegation of Poisoning

The tension reached a tragic climax on November 5, when Swarnalata allegedly consumed poison. Her parents allege that she was forcibly made to drink the toxic substance by her husband and in-laws. The young woman succumbed shortly after, leaving her family devastated.

Police sources say that an investigation has begun, and statements from both sides were being recorded. A post-mortem report is awaited to determine the exact cause of death.

"We found that during the night she was engaged in a constant quarrel and was beaten up, and later they poisoned her to death. No one came to her the whole night. They found her at 7:30 AM in the morning, and no one had informed us about the incident. They informed us at 3:30 PM. We have come to Naktideul Station, and here too no one is listening to us. They are saying they are investigating the matter and have arrested one person," said Sunanda Pradhan, relative of the deceased woman.

A Community in Shock

The incident has sent shockwaves through the village communities of Batagaon and Podapoda. Residents say that the tragedy highlights the need for stronger social awareness and stricter enforcement of laws related to dowry harassment and domestic abuse.