Daijiworld Media Network - Bhadrak

Bhadrak, Dec 5: A 65-year-old woman sustained severe burn injuries under mysterious circumstances at her home in Galaganda village under Bilana Panchayat, Tihidi police limits, on Thursday.

The victim, Jyotsnarani Nayak, was admitted to SCB Medical College and Hospital (MCH), Cuttack, and her condition is reported to be critical. Police have detained her son, Debashish Nayak (45), a known liquor addict, for questioning in connection with the incident.

According to sources, neighbours heard Jyotsnarani screaming around 8 a.m. and rushed to her house to find her in a severely burnt condition. She was initially taken to Bhadrak District Headquarters Hospital and later shifted to SCB MCH as her condition worsened.

Some locals alleged that Debashish had demanded money from his mother to buy liquor. When she refused, he reportedly assaulted her, and she collapsed, after which he allegedly poured petrol on her and set her on fire. However, other villagers claimed the incident was accidental, saying Jyotsnarani’s clothes caught fire while she was preparing food in the kitchen.

Tihidi IIC Satyabrata Graharaj said a police team reached Galaganda village for investigation. “So far, police have received no formal complaint in connection with the incident. After making a station diary entry, we have launched an investigation. The woman’s son has been detained and is being interrogated to determine the circumstances leading to the incident,” he added.

The investigation is ongoing, and authorities are examining both statements and evidence to ascertain whether the incident was accidental or deliberate.