Rejected Marriage Proposal Turns Fatal in Balangir; Woman’s Maternal Uncle Killed, Three Injured

Balangir, July 5 (UDN): A man was allegedly beaten to death and three members of his family were seriously injured in an overnight attack at Mallikmunda village under Patnagarh police limits in Odisha’s Balangir district, with police suspecting the assault to have been triggered by a marriage proposal that was earlier called off.

The deceased was identified as Binod Sahu, while his wife, son and daughter sustained injuries in the attack. All three were admitted to a nearby hospital for treatment.

According to police, the prime accused, identified as Surendra Sahu, is absconding, and efforts are underway to apprehend him.

Preliminary investigation revealed that Surendra’s marriage had been arranged with a woman from Jambahal village last year. However, the proposal was later withdrawn by the woman’s family, reportedly over concerns about the youth’s drinking habits. Binod Sahu, the woman’s maternal uncle, is believed to have been closely associated with the family’s decision.

Police said Surendra and his mother had reportedly visited Binod’s residence on Friday and stayed there for the night after sharing a meal with the family. During the night, while the family members were asleep, Surendra allegedly attacked them with a wooden stick.

Binod sustained severe head injuries and died in the assault, while his wife, son and daughter were also injured before neighbours rushed to their rescue. The injured were shifted to hospital, where they are undergoing treatment.

On receiving information, police reached the village, recovered the body for post-mortem examination and launched an investigation. A scientific team also visited the spot to collect evidence.

Police suspect the attack was a revenge act linked to the cancellation of the marriage proposal, though the exact motive is being verified. A case has been registered, and raids are being conducted to trace the absconding accused.

The incident has triggered shock in the locality, with police maintaining vigil in the village to prevent any untoward situation.