Bhubaneswar: In a shocking incident, a man allegedly died by suicide after his friends reportedly refused to return Rs 17 lakh they had borrowed from him in Chandrasekharpur area of Bhubaneswar.
The deceased has been identified as Ashwini Kumar Tandia. He allegedly set himself on fire in the early hours of Sunday. He was first rushed to Capital Hospital and then shifted to AIIMS Bhubaneswar, where he succumbed to his burn injuries.
According to a complaint lodged by the brother of the deceased, Tandia had lent around Rs 17 lakh to one Ashish Das, who had reportedly promised him to arrange a house. However, despite repeated request to return the money, the man never repaid the amount. Tandia was reportedly under severe stress after failing to recover the money.
Police said the incident took place outside the residence of one of the persons who had allegedly borrowed money from Tandia.
Based on the complaint, Chandrasekharpur police arrested the brother-in-law of Ashish, identified as Prabhas Panda. Police have registered a case alleging mental harassment and instigation connected with the death. Ashish is reported to be absconding.
The incident has brought attention to the consequences of prolonged disputes over financial transactions and allegations of harassment.
Further investigation is underway to establish the exact nature of the dispute and the circumstances preceding the death.