Sundargarh: A murder accused lodged in Sundargarh jail escaped from the district headquarters hospital while undergoing treatment today.

The accused, identified as Tekchand Behera, had been admitted to the surgery ward of Sundargarh District Headquarters Hospital on Tuesday after developing health problems. He was brought to the hospital from Sundargarh Jail for treatment.

According to preliminary information, Behera escaped from the hospital by using the pretext of going to the toilet. Jail personnel launched a search after noticing that he was missing, but failed to trace him.

Police were subsequently informed, and a search was launched in the area. A dog squad was also pressed into service to track the accused, but no breakthrough had been reported so far.

Behera was lodged in Sundargarh Jail as an undertrial prisoner in connection with a murder case registered at Sundargarh Sadar police station.

Police and jail authorities are continuing efforts to locate and apprehend the escaped accused.