A constable from the Odisha Motor Vehicle Department (OMVD) who suffered severe burn injuries allegedly inflicted by his wife and brother-in-law has died after a week-long struggle for life. The individual, identified as Ashutosh Mrudungi, passed away on June 12, 2026, while receiving treatment at AIIMS Bhubaneswar. His injuries were sustained in an incident that took place in Ganjam district on the night of June 5.

Mrudungi was initially taken to MKCG Medical College and Hospital in Berhampur but was later transferred to AIIMS Bhubaneswar as his condition worsened. Reports indicate that he sustained around 80 per cent burn injuries due to the alleged attack.

Initially, police suspected that the case might involve self-immolation. However, the situation changed when Mrudungi’s sister, Nivedita Devi, filed a formal complaint naming his wife, a woman constable stationed at the police reserve office in Berhampur, and his brother-in-law. Following this, police began gathering more evidence and statements from various witnesses.

Legal Proceedings and Investigation Status

Berhampur Superintendent of Police Saravana Vivek M stated that a case has been registered against the two accused. Statements collected from Mrudungi prior to his death have been crucial for the ongoing investigation. The police have also recorded statements from other individuals in the vicinity, and forensic teams have collected physical evidence as part of their inquiries.

According to police, the deceased’s sister is pressing for immediate action against the accused, alleging their direct involvement in her brother’s death. Investigators will determine the extent of the accused’s responsibility as the case unfolds.

Mrudungi had reportedly been married to the woman constable for approximately one and a half years. Their marriage had been troubled, marked by domestic disputes that led to both parties filing complaints at local police stations regarding allegations of domestic violence and dowry harassment. Investigations into these previous complaints may provide context for the tragic incident that resulted in Mrudungi’s death.

Background of Domestic Issues and Legal Complications

Details surrounding the domestic disputes suggest a tumultuous relationship between Mrudungi and his wife, Sandhya. According to reports, on May 18, 2026, Mrudungi allegedly assaulted Sandhya, leading to injuries that she claimed affected her face, abdomen, and hands. At the time of the alleged assault, Sandhya was reportedly three months pregnant. She subsequently suffered a miscarriage on May 23, which she linked to the assault.

Following the incident, Mrudungi was arrested and later released on bail on June 3. Just two days later, the burn incident occurred while he was reportedly en route to his wife’s government quarters in Bijipur, bringing further attention to their troubled relationship.

The investigation into Mrudungi’s death remains ongoing, with police confirming that they will take appropriate action against the accused if sufficient evidence is found to substantiate their involvement in the incident. The case draws attention not only to the individual tragedy but also to broader issues of domestic violence and its repercussions.

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