A woman was allegedly set on fire by her in-laws in an attempted murder at Nuagaon Kesaberani village under Badamba Police Station limits. The victim’s mother alleged that the husband, mother-in-law, father-in-law and sister-in-law poured kerosene on her daughter and tried to burn her alive.

According to the complaint, the woman, Chinmayee Behera, had been subjected to prolonged physical and mental torture by her husband, Neelamani Behera, over a period of time. A few days ago, she had left her in-laws’ home and taken shelter at her parents' house.

She was reportedly called back by her in-laws on the pretext that PDS rice had arrived. Once she returned, the family members allegedly confined her to a room and set her on fire.

Chinmayee was initially rushed to Badamba Medical in critical condition and later referred to SCB Medical College and Hospital, in Odisha's Cuttack, where doctors confirmed she had sustained nearly 70% burn injuries.

At the time of reporting, the accused in-laws were absconding. Police have launched an investigation into the case. Efforts to obtain comments from Chinmayee’s husband or his family remained unsuccessful.

Statements Of Victim’s Mother and Doctor

Surama Behera, the victim’s mother, stated that her daughter was facing frequent disputes at her marital home. She said, “Her husband and in-laws burnt her and then informed me and asked me to come immediately. They used to quarrel with her often, so she was staying with us. But he called her back, saying ration rice was being distributed.”

Also Read: Man attacks wife, in-laws with knife in Cuttack; 3 injured

Dr Dolagobinda Jena, the attending doctor at Badamba Hospital, said that the victim received emergency treatment before being referred to Cuttack. He stated, “The woman sustained 70 per cent burn injuries. After providing immediate medical care, we referred her to SCB MCH. We also informed the police, and her statement, including her dying declaration, was recorded.”