Retired Government Officer Allegedly Kills Wife in Bhubaneswar Amid Suicide Attempt
A shocking incident unfolded in Bhubaneswar's Airfield area on Wednesday, where a retired government officer allegedly killed his wife after she reportedly tried to prevent him from taking his own life. The tragedy is linked to prolonged depression stemming from multiple diseases, according to police and family sources.
Details of the Tragic Incident
The deceased has been identified as Priyambada Sarangi, aged 55. Her husband, Debraj Sarangi, 62, a retired government officer, reportedly took out a kitchen knife around 10 am with the intent to harm himself at their home. When Priyambada intervened to stop him, a scuffle ensued, during which he allegedly slashed her throat, leading to her death.
Deputy Commissioner of Police Jagmohan Meena stated, "Prima facie investigation suggests he had no prior motive to kill his wife. There was no disturbance in the family. The incident appears to have taken place in the heat of the moment when she tried to prevent him from committing suicide."
Aftermath and Family Statements
Following the incident, Debraj went to his daughter Arpita's home in the Patrapada area. He handed her some cash and jewellery without revealing what had occurred, then later surrendered at the Airfield police station.
Arpita confirmed her father had been under severe stress, saying, "He had been depressed for six months due to multiple ailments involving hypertension, diabetes, and liver issues. He withdrew from us, stopped watching TV, and remained aloof. Just three days ago, I got some medical tests done, and the reports were normal. I counselled him last evening."
She added that on Wednesday morning, her father called to ask her to recharge her mother's phone. "Around noon, he visited my home, gave me jewellery and cash, and left without explanation. An hour later, I received a call from police about the incident," Arpita recounted.
Relatives Express Shock and Grief
Relatives expressed profound shock at the tragedy. Sarat Kumar Dash, a relative, said, "We knew he was mentally disturbed due to illness, but never imagined it would lead to such a tragedy. After retirement from service two years ago, he recently constructed his own house and was happy before multiple diseases robbed him of peace."
Dash further shared, "Just 10 days ago, he asked me to bring wheat flour. Today, when I reached his home with it, police were already there."
Police Interrogation and Mental State
During interrogation, police reported that Debraj was apologetic and regretful of his actions. An officer at Airfield police station stated, "He regretted his action and told us he was not in a sound state of mind during the scuffle. He said he still intends to take his own life one day."
This case highlights the severe impact of mental health issues, particularly depression linked to chronic diseases, and underscores the need for greater awareness and support systems to prevent such tragedies in the future.
