Woman found hanging at matrimonial home in Balangir, family alleges dowry murder

The body of a 26-year-old woman, Dasmati Chand, was found hanging at her matrimonial home in the Barhampura locality under Patnagarh police limits in Balangir district on Sunday. Her father, Akrura Chand, has alleged in a police complaint that she was murdered by her husband and sister-in-law over dowry demands. Police have detained a man identified as Omkar Thakur and her sister-in-law in connection with the case. Dasmati Chand married Omkar Thakur in 2023, and the couple had a daughter. Authorities are pending the post-mortem report to ascertain the cause of death. The incident has been registered under relevant sections of the Indian Penal Code by Patnagarh police.

According to family members, Dasmati Chand, daughter of Akrura Chand from Maharapada village under Khaprakhol police limits, had been facing persistent harassment and demands for additional dowry since her marriage in 2023. Her father stated that despite multiple attempts to reconcile and address the demands, the pressure from her in-laws intensified over time, culminating in the tragic incident. He urged authorities to conduct a thorough and impartial investigation to ensure justice for his daughter.

Local residents in Barhampura expressed shock and concern over the incident, with several noting that dowry-related disputes, though often underreported, remain a troubling issue in the region. Community leaders called for increased awareness and stricter enforcement of anti-dowry laws to prevent such tragedies.

Police officials confirmed that both Omkar Thakur and the sister-in-law were taken into custody for questioning based on the initial complaint and circumstantial evidence. They emphasized that no conclusions would be drawn until the post-mortem report and further forensic analysis are completed. The case remains under active investigation, with authorities interviewing witnesses and collecting evidence from the matrimonial home.

Legal experts noted that the case would likely be prosecuted under Section 304B (dowry death) and Section 498A (cruelty by husband or relatives) of the Indian Penal Code, which carry stringent penalties if proven. They stressed the importance of preserving evidence and ensuring victim families receive adequate support during the legal process.

As of now, the body has been sent for post-mortem examination, and the results are awaited to determine whether the death was suicidal or homicidal in nature. The Patnagarh police have assured the public that all aspects of the case are being examined meticulously and in accordance with the law.