Cuttack, June 6: The death of a medical student whose body was recovered from the Kathajodi riverbed has taken a new twist, with the victim’s family alleging that a love triangle may have led to the tragedy.

The deceased, Chandrika Bhanjabala Hembram of Mayurbhanj district, was reportedly in a long-term relationship spanning nearly 15 years. Family members claimed that the couple had planned to marry in December next year and that their relationship had been progressing smoothly. However, the alleged entry of another woman into the relationship created differences between the couple, eventually leading to a fallout.

Following the recovery of Chandrika’s body from the Kathajodi riverbed on June 4, her mother, Hiramani Hansda, lodged a complaint at Baranga Police Station. While the incident was initially suspected to be a case of suicide, fresh allegations by the family have brought several individuals under the scanner.

The victim’s boyfriend has emerged as a key person of interest in the investigation, although police have not yet reached any conclusion and continue to probe all possible angles behind the death.

Meanwhile, the recovery of multiple bodies from the Kathajodi riverbed in recent weeks has raised serious concerns. Four bodies have been found in the area within the last 15 days, adding to the mystery surrounding the riverbank.

On May 21, the body of a woman was recovered from the riverbed, triggering a controversy linked to alleged custodial torture at Baranga Police Station. Another unidentified woman's body was found on May 26. The recovery of Chandrika Hembram’s body on June 4 has further intensified concerns, prompting demands for a comprehensive investigation into the series of deaths.