Balasore, May 20: A horrific incident has surfaced from Chakrada village under Basta police limits in Balasore district, where a couple was allegedly set on fire while asleep in their house late at night. The couple, identified as Bijay Behera and his wife Arati, sustained critical burn injuries in the attack.
According to sources, unidentified miscreants allegedly broke open the door of the house and entered during the night. They reportedly poured petrol on the bed where the couple was sleeping and set it ablaze before fleeing from the scene. In the incident, Arati is said to have suffered nearly 70 percent burn injuries.
Hearing their screams, neighbours rushed to the spot and rescued the couple by breaking open the door. The injured duo was first admitted to Basta hospital and later shifted to AIIMS Balasore as their condition deteriorated.
Police from Basta Police Station have reached the spot and launched an investigation into the incident.
Meanwhile, family members suspect the attack could be linked to a recent love affair involving Bijay’s son Papu, who had allegedly eloped with a girl from Badhandaadi village under Sadar block. They suspect the girl’s family members may have been behind the brutal act.
