Parjang: A shocking incident was reported from Naupal Kateni village under Parjang police limits in Odisha’s Dhenkanal district, where a widow allegedly threw boiling oil and hot water on her elderly father-in-law, leaving him critically injured.

The victim has been identified as 80-year-old Srikant Bhutia. According to sources, the accused woman, Kusumi Bhutia, had allegedly been facing continuous harassment and abuse from her father-in-law for a long time.

Family members said Srikant’s only son, Narottam Bhutia, had died three years ago. Since then, Kusumi had been living with her daughter and elderly father-in-law in the same house. Srikant reportedly worked in nearby households to support the family. His wife had also passed away several years ago, while his daughter is married.

Years of abuse before violent retaliation

Villagers alleged that the elderly man often tortured both his daughter-in-law and granddaughter. They further claimed that he allegedly maintained an inappropriate attitude towards Kusumi, leading to repeated disputes within the family. The matter had reportedly been discussed and settled several times in village meetings.

On Monday, tensions escalated after the father-in-law allegedly locked Kusumi inside the house. Later in the evening, around 8 pm, Srikant was reportedly heating oil mixed with water in a pan outside the house. As soon as the door was opened, Kusumi, allegedly enraged over the repeated harassment, threw the boiling liquid at him.

Hearing his screams, neighbours rushed to the spot and informed emergency services. The injured man was first taken to Parjang Community Health Centre in a 112 ambulance and later shifted to the Dhenkanal District Headquarters Hospital as his condition deteriorated.

Sources said Srikant sustained severe burn injuries on his face and abdomen.

Police have detained Kusumi and her daughter for questioning and launched an investigation into the incident.