Undertrial Prisoner ‘dies by suicide’ in Choudwar jail

Another tragic incident has once again placed Choudwar Jail in Cuttack under the spotlight. An undertrial prisoner, identified as Pabitra Sahu, aged 44, lost his life after allegedly attempting suicide inside the prison. Officials said Sahu was found in a critical condition and rushed to the SCB Medical College and Hospital in Cuttack, where doctors declared him dead.

Who Was the Deceased Prisoner?

Pabitra Sahu was serving time in connection with a chit fund scam case. He had been convicted earlier and was awaiting further legal proceedings. Jail sources said Sahu mostly kept to himself and had not shown any visible signs of distress prior to the incident.

"Today, in the afternoon, a convict named Pabitra Sahu committed suicide, and after that he was shifted to the Hospital in an Ambulance, where doctors declared him brought dead. I came here to inspect under what circumstances he ended his life. He took this extreme step in the bathroom. People end their lives citing mental illness, so jail authorities are taking steps and decisions regarding this," said Amitabh Thakur, Jail ADG

Also Read: Choudwar Jail superintendent transferred amid security lapse

How it happened

According to preliminary reports, Sahu attempted to end his life inside his cell under circumstances that remain unclear and deeply concerning. Prison staff discovered him in an unconscious state and immediately shifted him to hospital care. Despite all efforts, he succumbed to his injuries shortly after admission.

Authorities Launch Probe

Following the death, the jail administration informed the local police, and a magisterial inquiry has been recommended to investigate the circumstances leading to the suicide.

A Grim Reminder

This incident adds to the string of controversies surrounding Choudwar Jail, already known for lapses in inmate safety. The tragic death of Pabitra Sahu serves as a stark reminder of the urgent need for mental health support and improved monitoring inside Odisha’s prisons before despair claims yet another life behind bars.