In a shocking case from Mayurbhanj district, Odisha police have arrested four persons, including health worker Debashis Patra (36), for the brutal murder of his wife, Sonali Dalei, and her mother, Sumati Dalai. The victims were found buried in the courtyard of Patra’s residence in Badanugaon village.
According to Additional Superintendent of Police Deepak Kumar Gachhayat, the crime was premeditated and stemmed from prolonged matrimonial disputes and family discord. Debashis Patra reportedly planned the murders and enlisted the help of Sambhunath Naik alias Babua (29) and Sipun Pradhan alias Kala (25) to carry out the killings. Bharati Patra (60) was also arrested in connection with the case.
The investigation revealed that Debashis Patra had a troubled history, including conflicts with his second wife, and had been involved in similar cases earlier. He and his accomplices reportedly tied up the victims and killed them after digging a large ditch in an isolated area of his home.
The bodies were recovered buried in the courtyard of Patra’s house following the accused’s confession. Police continue to investigate the case under the supervision of the Superintendent of Police.
Debashis Patra had married Sonali Dalei, granddaughter of Ananta Dalei, after his first marriage ended. Despite attempts at reconciliation, the couple frequently fought, with Sonali often staying at her mother’s home in Ambadubi village. The murder appears to have been a grim attempt to resolve family conflicts.
