Crime in Odisha / Youth Dies After Setting Himself Ablaze Over Loan Dispute in Bhubaneswar

Bhubaneswar, Sep 20: In a tragic incident in the capital city, a young man allegedly set himself ablaze over financial distress and later succumbed to injuries at AIIMS Bhubaneswar on Sunday.

In a tragic incident in the capital city, a young man allegedly set himself ablaze over financial distress and later succumbed to injuries at AIIMS Bhubaneswar.

The deceased, identified as Ashwini Kumar Tandia of Mahavir Basti, had reportedly lent a substantial amount of money — between Rs7 lakh and Rs17 lakh — to acquaintances, including one Ashish Das. Despite repeated requests, the money was not returned, leaving Tandia under severe mental stress. Family members alleged that he was subjected to constant harassment and false assurances, which pushed him into depression.
Also Read: Mayurbhanj: Child’s Death Sparks Violence at Sarasakana Hospital

Unable to bear the pressure, Tandia doused himself in fuel and set himself on fire. He was rushed to AIIMS Bhubaneswar in critical condition but died during treatment.

The Chandrasekharpur police have initiated an investigation into the matter. Preliminary reports suggest financial disputes and prolonged harassment as the primary reasons behind the extreme step. The incident has sparked concern over rising cases of financial exploitation and the lack of timely intervention in such disputes.