Bhubaneswar: A disturbing case has emerged from the Bisra area of Sundargarh district, where a woman was allegedly set ablaze by a man following her refusal of his one-sided love proposal late on Friday night.

According to reports, the accused, identified as Rajat Kiro, allegedly poured petrol on the victim, Anju Toppo of Jaratoli village, and set her ablaze after she refused his proposal for a relationship. Anju sustained severe burn injuries, with nearly 70 per cent of her body affected.

The incident occurred while Anju was asleep in her house with a window left open. Taking advantage of the situation, the accused allegedly entered and set the room on fire after dousing her with petrol. Hearing sudden noises, family members rushed to the spot and found the house engulfed in flames, with Anju also on fire. They immediately doused the flames, rescued her, and rushed her to the hospital.

She was first taken to Rourkela Government Hospital. Due to the critical nature of her condition, she was referred to Veer Surendra Sai Institute of Medical Sciences and Research (VIMSAR), Burla, in Sambalpur. However, as no bed was available there, she was brought back to Rourkela and admitted to a private hospital, where she is currently undergoing treatment. Her condition remains critical.

Following the incident, the accused has been absconding. Based on a complaint lodged by the victim’s family, police have launched a manhunt to trace and arrest Rajat Kiro.

Police officials stated an investigation is underway, and all possible angles are being examined. Whether the crime was solely triggered by rejection or involved any larger conspiracy will be determined after the probe is completed.