Miscreants attacked a couple in Chakrada village under Basta police station in Odisha’s Balasore district and set them on fire while they slept.
The victims, identified as Bijay Behera and his wife Aarti Behera, sustained severe burns. Aarti suffered nearly 70 per cent injuries, and both remain critical.
Reports said the couple went to bed after dinner on Tuesday night. Around midnight, intruders broke down the door, poured petrol on the bed, and ignited it before fleeing. Neighbours heard their screams, rushed in, and rescued them. The couple was first taken to Basta Community Health Centre and later shifted to AIIMS Hospital in Balasore due to the seriousness of their condition.
Family members suspect revenge as the motive. They alleged that their son Papu had eloped with a girl from Badadhanadi village under Sadar block, and the girl’s family may have orchestrated the attack.
Basta police reached the spot and began an investigation. Officers collected evidence and recorded statements from neighbours. The probe continues to identify the attackers and confirm the motive behind the brutal assault.
