In a shocking and deeply disturbing incident, a 55-year-old man allegedly murdered his wife in Odisha’s Mayurbhanj district after she failed to serve him egg curry for lunch.
The incident occurred on Tuesday afternoon in Bandhasahi village under the Kutling area, which falls under the jurisdiction of Udala Police Station, reported NDTV.
The accused, identified as Lama Baskey (right), returned home from work expecting a lunch that included egg curry – a dish he had reportedly brought ingredients for.
When his 41-year-old wife, Basanti Baskey, served him a different curry instead, a violent argument broke out.
According to police, the altercation quickly escalated. In a fit of rage, Lama began beating Ms Basanti outside their home.
Witnesses said the fight turned brutal when Lama dragged his wife inside the house and attacked her repeatedly with an iron blowing pipe, striking her on the head. Ms Basanti died on the spot due to the severe head injuries.
Inspector-in-Charge of Udala Police Station Banamali Barik confirmed the arrest and stated that the accused had confessed to the crime during preliminary interrogation, reported kalingatv. com.
“We have arrested Lama Baskey based on a formal complaint lodged by the victim’s mother, Main Hembram,” said Mr Barik.
The police arrived at the scene shortly after being alerted by villagers. The victim’s body was sent to Udala Sub Divisional Hospital for post-mortem.
Law enforcement officials have launched a deeper investigation into the incident and are also speaking with neighbours and relatives.
Locals in Kutiling village are still in shock over the gruesome nature of the crime. While domestic disputes are not uncommon, the sheer brutality of this case – sparked by a disagreement over food – has drawn widespread condemnation.
“This is not just a case of domestic violence. It’s a tragic reflection of how deeply rooted anger and patriarchy can explode into violence over the smallest of issues,” said a women’s rights activist from the district who requested anonymity.
Police have booked Lama under relevant sections of the Indian Penal Code, including charges of murder.
Authorities are continuing their investigation to determine whether there were previous incidents of abuse in the household.
The case has reignited calls for stronger interventions and awareness around domestic violence in rural India.
