A shocking incident from Odisha’s Bhadrak district has left a 65-year-old woman battling for her life after she was allegedly assaulted and set ablaze by her son. Police say the attack occurred on Wednesday evening in Galaganda village under Tihidi police limits.
Altercation turned violent after mother refused money
According to initial reports, the accused, 45-year-old Debashish Nayak, demanded money from his mother, Jyotsnarani Nayak, to buy liquor. When she refused, he allegedly attacked her in a fit of rage.
Local residents told police that Debashish, a known substance abuser, assaulted her until she collapsed. He then allegedly poured petrol on her body and set her on fire. Jyotsnarani’s screams alerted neighbours, who rushed to the spot.
“When neighbours rushed hearing her cries, the accused escaped before he could be detained,” said Satyabrata Graharaj, Inspector-in-Charge of Tihidi Police Station.
Victim shifted to Cuttack after condition worsens
Neighbours and family members immediately took the severely injured woman to Bhadrak District Headquarters Hospital. Doctors later referred her to SCB Medical College and Hospital in Cuttack due to the seriousness of her burn injuries.
Police said the woman sustained extensive burns and remains in critical condition.
A neighbour, Subrata Nayak, said violent arguments between Debashish and his mother were frequent.
“But we never imagined he would set his mother on fire simply because she refused to give him money for liquor,” he added.
Police launch investigation; manhunt under way
Officers have registered a case and launched a manhunt for the accused, who fled immediately after the incident. Investigators are recording witness statements and collecting evidence from the scene.
Tihidi police confirmed that the attack was premeditated, as Debashish reportedly kept petrol at home and had a history of substance abuse and violent behaviour.
Police teams have been deployed to likely hideouts, and neighbouring stations have been alerted.
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A case highlighting substance abuse and domestic violence
The incident reflects the growing concerns around alcohol and substance abuse in rural Odisha, where police and social organisations have reported rising domestic conflicts linked to addiction.
Women’s rights groups have repeatedly urged authorities to strengthen community awareness and support services, noting that elderly women are particularly vulnerable to violence within the household.
Residents of Galaganda village expressed shock and demanded strict action against the accused.
“This is beyond cruelty. The village is traumatised,” said a local panchayat member.
Authorities call for stronger intervention measures
Social workers in the region have reiterated the need for counselling centres, early intervention programmes and access to de-addiction facilities. Many argue that such incidents—though extreme—highlight gaps in rural mental health and addiction support.
Police authorities have stated that more stringent enforcement of laws relating to domestic violence and elder abuse is required.
As Jyotsnarani continues to receive treatment in Cuttack, police say they are committed to ensuring that the accused is arrested soon and brought to justice.