Khallikote (Ganjam): A tragic incident allegedly linked to a prolonged family dispute claimed the life of a woman and left her husband critically injured in Mathura village under Khallikote police limits of Odisha's Ganjam district.

The deceased has been identified as Anita Pradhan, while her husband, Ramesh Pradhan, sustained severe burn injuries and is undergoing treatment.

According to reports, Anita, a resident of Jatiakhola village in Rambha area, had married Ramesh of Mathura village around two years ago. Family members alleged that the couple had been facing domestic discord since their marriage.

On Sunday night, a heated argument reportedly broke out between the couple. During the incident, both Anita and Ramesh suffered serious burn injuries after petrol was allegedly poured and a fire broke out. The exact circumstances leading to the incident are yet to be established.

Both were initially rescued and admitted to the MKCG Hospital, Berhampur, for treatment. However, Anita succumbed to her injuries while undergoing treatment. Ramesh remains in critical condition.

Meanwhile, Anita's family has lodged a murder allegation against Ramesh, claiming that he was responsible for her death.

After receiving information about the incident, police reached the spot and launched an investigation. Officials said the exact cause of the fire and the sequence of events will be determined based on evidence and statements collected during the probe.

Further investigation is underway.