Youth critical after self-immolation bid in Cuttack’s Banki, Police probe on

A youth sustained critical burn injuries after allegedly attempting self-immolation in the Banki area of Cuttack district. He is currently undergoing treatment at SCB Medical College and Hospital, where his condition is reported to be serious.

The incident took place in the Ostia area under the jurisdiction of Banki in Cuttack district on Sunday night. The injured youth has been identified as Amiya Singh, who reportedly suffered burn injuries over a large portion of his body and was rushed to the hospital for emergency treatment.

Family Alleges Distress Over Employment Issue

According to allegations made by Amiya’s brother, the incident is linked to prolonged mental distress related to employment issues following their father’s death. The family claimed that Amiya’s father was employed with the Jobra Ground Water Department and that Amiya had been hopeful of securing employment on compassionate grounds after his father passed away.

Despite completing his education up to the +3 level, Amiya reportedly remained unemployed even seven years after his father’s death. His brother alleged that the prolonged uncertainty and disappointment took a toll on Amiya’s mental health, eventually leading to the incident.

Victim Gives Different Version

However, Amiya has reportedly denied the family’s allegation linking the incident to job-related issues. Despite sustaining burn injuries to nearly 90 per cent of his body, he is said to have provided a different account to authorities.

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According to his statement, Amiya alleged that a woman named Mona had been blackmailing him, which caused him severe mental stress. He claimed that he took the extreme step due to this alleged harassment and clarified that no other person was directly involved in the incident.

Investigation Underway

Police have taken note of the conflicting statements and said that an investigation is underway to ascertain the exact circumstances leading to the incident. No official statement has yet been issued by the police or hospital authorities regarding the matter.

Further details are awaited as the probe continues.