In a disturbing case of domestic violence, police have arrested Namita Sahu and her son Abhisek for the murder of Sishir Sahu, a forester in Odisha’s Nayagarh district. His half-burnt body was discovered at his residence in Baramasidanda on Saturday morning.
Sishir, who worked in the Sarankul Pancharida forest range, reportedly visited home rarely and often slept in his car. On Friday night, a heated argument erupted, during which Namita allegedly poured petrol on Sahu. With help from Abhisek, she then set him ablaze, according to SDPO Jyoti Ranjan Samantaray.
Namita sustained minor burn injuries, while Abhisek was unscathed. During interrogation, both confessed to the murder. Investigators believe a longstanding family dispute was the motive.
Earlier claims that the fire was accidental have been contradicted by forensic evidence. Petrol traces and burn marks across multiple rooms—from the living room to the kitchen—suggest a deliberate act to ensure death.
Police recreated the crime scene before confirming the arrests. The incident has shocked locals and raised concerns over escalating domestic violence cases in the region.