Police have detained the main accused, Pramod Behera, in Chennai, marking a significant breakthrough in the tragic self-immolation case of a young student from Pattamundai, Kendrapara district.
Behera, a resident of Terohi village, was allegedly blackmailing the deceased with threats to leak obscene photos following their breakup.
According to police sources, the arrest was made after mounting pressure from the victim’s family and local residents, who demanded justice. The girl reportedly set herself on fire while alone at home, a chilling act that has left the community in mourning.
The deceased’s body was returned to her native village under tight security, and her last rites were performed amidst emotional scenes. Investigators believe Behera’s interrogation will shed light on the circumstances leading to the student’s death, which remains shrouded in mystery.
The case has sparked widespread outrage and calls for stronger cybercrime laws and mental health support for victims of online harassment.
