Rourkela: A 27-year-old woman is battling for her life after she was allegedly set on fire by a man believed to be obsessed with her while she was asleep at her home in Odisha’s Rourkela. The incident, which occurred in Santoshpur under the Bisra Police Station limits in Sundargarh district, has sparked concern over women’s safety and emergency healthcare facilities in the region.

The victim sustained severe burn injuries and is undergoing treatment at a private hospital in Rourkela after reportedly being denied admission at another referral hospital due to the non-availability of beds. Police have arrested the main accused and launched a detailed investigation into the case.

Woman suffers severe burn injuries

According to preliminary information, the incident took place during the early hours of Saturday when the woman was asleep inside her room.

Family members and neighbours rushed to the house after hearing her screams and managed to extinguish the flames before rescuing her.

The victim reportedly suffered between 60 and 70 per cent burn injuries and was initially taken to the Rourkela Government Hospital for emergency treatment.

Doctors later referred her to Veer Surendra Sai Institute of Medical Sciences and Research (VIMSAR) in Burla for specialised care.

Family alleges lack of hospital bed

The victim’s family claimed that after travelling nearly 200 kilometres to VIMSAR, they were informed that no bed was available for her admission.

With no immediate treatment available there, the family brought the critically injured woman back to Rourkela.

She was subsequently admitted to a private hospital, where doctors are continuing treatment. Her condition remains critical.

The incident has raised fresh questions about the availability of emergency medical facilities for critically injured patients in the state.

Police arrest accused

Rourkela Police launched an investigation soon after the incident and determined that it was a deliberate act of arson rather than an accidental fire.

Using scientific evidence, technical analysis and field intelligence, investigators identified and arrested the main suspect within a short period.

Police said the accused allegedly set the woman on fire and confirmed that further investigation is underway to establish the motive and sequence of events.

Authorities have assured that legal proceedings will be expedited.

Investigation underway

Police are continuing to collect forensic evidence and record statements from witnesses as part of the investigation.

Officials said additional evidence is being examined to strengthen the case before it is presented in court.

The identity of the accused and further details regarding the alleged motive are expected to emerge as the investigation progresses.

The accused is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

Incident sparks concern

The incident has triggered outrage among residents and renewed calls for stronger measures to ensure women’s safety.

It has also highlighted concerns about emergency healthcare infrastructure, particularly the availability of specialised treatment facilities for patients with severe burn injuries.

Authorities have assured that the investigation will be conducted thoroughly and that appropriate legal action will be taken based on the findings.