Woman Inmate Found Dead in Nimapara Sub-Jail; Family Alleges Foul Play

Puri: Tension prevailed at Nimapara Sub-Jail in Odisha’s Puri district after a woman inmate was found dead under suspicious circumstances inside the women’s ward on Monday.

The deceased has been identified as Madhusmita Baral, a resident of Delanga. She was found hanging from a ceiling fan inside the ward. While jail authorities suspect it to be a case of suicide, her family members have alleged murder and demanded a thorough probe.

According to preliminary information, Madhusmita had been lodged in the sub-jail in connection with the alleged murder of her minor daughter and was awaiting further legal proceedings. It is suspected that she used a piece of cloth to hang herself.

Jail officials said that after having lunch, Madhusmita was sitting in the veranda of the women’s ward along with other inmates before returning inside. A few minutes later, she was found hanging. During routine checks, staff members noticed her in a critical condition and immediately intervened. She was brought down and rushed to a hospital, where doctors declared her dead on arrival.

Authorities have stated that a post-mortem examination will be conducted to ascertain the exact cause of death and determine whether it was a case of suicide or if any other factors were involved.

Following the incident, tension escalated as family members alleged foul play, claiming her death was not a suicide and demanding an impartial investigation. Police have initiated an inquiry into the matter, and further details are awaited.