Bhubaneswar: A 24-year-old woman was allegedly murdered near Pakanpur on the outskirts of Jagatsinghpur district on Tuesday, barely a day after her engagement ceremony.
The incident has triggered a probe with suspicion centring on her boyfriend, who is currently absconding.
The deceased, identified as Sasmita Das of Kathiapada village, was found with deep injuries on her neck, reportedly caused by a sharp weapon. Her body was recovered in a semi-naked condition, raising suspicions of sexual assault prior to the murder, police said.
According to family members, Sasmita’s engagement ceremony was held on Sunday (April 19) at a temple in Dhuanpari village at her maternal uncle’s residence. She was engaged to a youth from Bhadrak and had been staying there since the ceremony.
On Monday morning, her boyfriend allegedly brought her back home. Before leaving, he reportedly told her that he was travelling to Jamshedpur, where he works in a private company. The accused, a resident of the Tarikund area, was known to be in a close relationship with the victim, which was also known to her family, sources said.
On Tuesday evening, around 8 pm, Sasmita left home stating she was going to a nearby relative’s house. However, she did not return that night. Her family initially searched for her but did not inform the police immediately.
Later, her body was discovered by villagers returning from nearby agricultural fields. Police were informed thereafter.
Jagatsinghpur police reached the spot along with a scientific team and sniffer dogs to assist in the investigation. A case has been registered based on a complaint lodged by the victim’s father.
