Nuapada: A family of four narrowly escaped death after attempting self-immolation by pouring petrol on themselves in front of the Nuapada District & Sessions Court on Saturday, allegedly driven by prolonged harassment by neighbours.
The family — a couple from Duajhar village under Khariar police station limits and their two minor sons aged 7 and 5 — had poured petrol on their bodies and were preparing to set themselves on fire when a youth present nearby noticed the act.
Identified as Arvind Sahu, the youth immediately rushed forward and snatched the lighter from the couple’s hands, preventing the tragedy.
Police from Nuapada police station soon reached the spot, rescued the family and began an inquiry into the incident.
According to the couple, they have been living in Duajhar basti for several years and have been facing constant quarrels and assaults from a neighbouring family allegedly trying to force them to vacate the place. They claimed to have lodged a written complaint at Khariar police station about two years ago, but alleged that no effective action was taken after a case was registered.
Unable to endure the alleged harassment, the couple said they brought around four litres of petrol from their home and came to Nuapada before attempting the extreme step.
Police said further investigation is underway.
