Bolangir: A convict serving time for murder at Bolangir district jail and a warder posted at the same jail were left battling for life after being hit by lightning here Tuesday evening. The warder was identified as Gourang Bariha while the convict was identified as Mohan Chatabar (28).
Jail authorities rescued the duo in a critical condition and admitted them to the surgery ward at the district headquarters hospital. However, doctors said their condition was critical and advised them to be shifted to VSS Medical College and Hospital in Burla. Authorities accordingly shifted them to VSS where they are under treatment, sources said.
According to sources, a sudden thunderstorm lashed the district Tuesday evening. Meanwhile, Gourang who was on duty was hit by lightning along with Mohan. The duo was thrown to a distance due to the impact of the strike. Gourang sustained critical burn injuries and his uniform was reduced to ashes in the incident.
Doctors said Gourang was paralaysed below his waist due to the lightning strike.
Mohan regained consciousness but was unable to speak, sources said, adding that doctors suspect he has lost his ability for speech after the mishap.
Mohan hailed from Gambharimal village under Tusara police limits and was lodged at the district jail for the last eight years after being convicted in a murder case. PNN