Balasore, Feb 16: A woman sustained severe burn injuries in a tragic accident at the Lankeswara Temple in Balasore district on the occasion of Maha Shivaratri today. The incident occurred in the morning when Ranjusmita Behera, a resident of Gandibeda village, was lighting an earthen lamp as part of her prayers at the temple.

While performing the ritual, her saree accidentally caught fire, and she was engulfed in flames, suffering critical injuries.

Locals quickly rushed to her aid, extinguishing the flames, and immediately transported her to the Soro hospital. Given the severity of her injuries, she was later referred to the District Headquarters Hospital in Balasore for further treatment.

The incident has raised concerns about safety precautions during religious rituals, and authorities are expected to investigate the matter further.