Ganjam: In a gruesome incident, a pregnant woman staging a dharna outside her lover’s house in Ganjam district was allegedly hacked to death by his brother, in full view of her three-year-old daughter.

The incident occurred on Tuesday afternoon in Kharida village under Hinjili police limits.

According to reports, the victim, identified as Puja Swain from Agasti Nuagaon, had developed a relationship with Chintu Gouda from Kharida village after connecting on Instagram three years ago. The two had reportedly eloped and lived together in Puri for some time.

However, their relationship turned turbulent in recent days, with frequent quarrels and alleged physical abuse by Chintu.

A few days ago, Chintu allegedly brought Puja to Berhampur railway station on the pretext of travelling to Surat but abandoned her there. Left with no option, Puja filed complaints at Berhampur and Hinjili police stations.

Alleging inaction and seeking justice, Puja began a dharna outside Chintu’s house on Monday, accompanied by her young daughter.

Following the protest, Chintu’s family members reportedly locked the house and left. On Tuesday afternoon, his younger brother arrived at the spot and allegedly attacked Puja with a sharp weapon, killing her on the spot.

Puja, who was four months pregnant, was murdered in front of her child.

On being informed, Hinjili police reached the scene, sent the body for post-mortem, and rescued the minor girl.

The accused is currently absconding, and police have launched a manhunt to nab him. Further investigation is underway.