A shocking incident unfolded in Naupala village under Parjang block of Dhenkanal district when a daughter-in-law allegedly attacked her father-in-law with boiling oil, leaving him critically injured.
Reports said Kusmita Behera, widow of Srikant Bhutia’s son, lived with her 13-year-old daughter after her husband’s death eight years ago. Neighbours claimed Srikant frequently harassed Kusmita physically and mentally, forcing her to work as a labourer to support her daughter’s education.
On Monday morning, Srikant locked Kusmita and her daughter inside the house. Later in the evening, while preparing food, he placed a pan of oil on the stove. As he opened the door to bring cooking items, Kusmita rushed out in anger and poured the boiling oil on him.
Srikant suffered severe burns on his chest, stomach, and face. Police rushed him to Parjang Medical Centre in a PCR van, where doctors began treatment. His condition remains critical.
Police reached Naupala village soon after the incident and detained Kusmita. She now faces interrogation at Parjang police station.
