Bhograi: A 35-yearold man has been arrested for allegedly forcing his elderly mother to consume pesticide, leading to her death in Balasore district, police said Friday.
The incident occurred in Parulia village under Bhograi block and has triggered shock among local residents.
The accused, Laxmikant Dalai, is reportedly an alcoholic and frequently used to pick fights with his family members, including his 70-year-old widowed mother, Padmabati Dalai.
Neighbours alleged that the elderly woman was often subjected to abuse and neglect. She was reportedly denied proper food and clothing and was frequently assaulted. Locals said that any attempt to intervene often resulted in threats or violence from the accused.
Following a quarrel Thursday, Laxmikant allegedly drove his mother out of the house without food. Later that night, she returned and slept on the verandah, reportedly out of fear.
Police said that the accused dropped his wife and two children off at his in-laws’ house Friday morning before returning home.
He then allegedly forced his mother to consume pesticide while she was resting on the verandah.
Villagers, upon learning about the incident, overpowered the accused, tied him to a tree and assaulted him before police reached the spot.
He was rescued and taken into custody by Kamarda police. A case has been registered based on a complaint filed by the victim’s grandson.
The body has been sent for post-mortem, and further investigation is underway.