Sambalpur: Late-Night Fire Incident in Maneswar; Retired Teacher and Elderly Mother Die, Cause Remains Unknown
Sambalpur: A tragic fire broke out late at night in Hatapada, Maneswar, Sambalpur district, killing retired schoolteacher Sairendri Dixit (62) and her elderly mother, Snehalata Dixit (90). The cause of the fire is currently unknown.
Family Situation and Incident Details
Sairendri, who was unmarried, lived with her mother in the upper floor of their home, while her brother and his family occupied the ground floor. Due to her advanced age, Snehalata was bedridden. At around 10 PM, neighbors noticed flames coming from the upper floor and immediately informed Sairendri’s brother, Jagannath, who was downstairs. Jagannath alerted the authorities.
Firefighters Arrive, But It’s Too Late
The local police and fire brigade arrived shortly afterward and managed to control the fire. However, by the time they reached, Sairendri had already succumbed to the flames. Reports indicate that only the middle part of her body was burned, and surprisingly, none of the other belongings in the room were damaged.
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Cause of Death and Initial Observations
Snehalata, who was sleeping in another cot, likely died from suffocation due to smoke inhalation. Witnesses observed that the gas cylinder was open, though no cooking items were nearby, leaving the exact cause of the fire uncertain. The main entrance of the upper floor was locked from the inside, while an alternate gate leading downstairs was found open.
Daughter Alleges Murder Over Property Dispute
Meanwhile, the deceased’s younger daughter Indrani Purohit brought serious allegations of murder over land and property dispute.
“I was having my dinner when I received a call. I asked my daughter-in-law to receive the call, and I became shocked when I heard the news. I immediately rushed here, but they did not allow me to see their bodies. I’m sure my brother has burnt my mother and sister alive for land and property,” alleged Indrani.
Authorities, including DSP Tofan Bag and other officers, arrived at the scene. The police have not yet ruled out any possibilities, stating it’s unclear if this was an accident, suicide, or even homicide.
