Burning Truth: Niali Youth’s Final Video Sparks Murder Probe

Bhubaneswar, August 16 (OT webdesk)— A disturbing twist has emerged in the death of Jyoti Ranjan Mathia, a youth from Baliapattana near Bhubaneswar, who succumbed to severe burn injuries on Saturday.

Initially believed to be a case of self-immolation, the narrative shifted dramatically after a video surfaced in which Jyoti accused his father, stepmother, and stepbrother of setting him ablaze over a property dispute.

In the video, Jyoti is heard saying, “My father, mother and brother poured petrol and set me on fire… There is no property in my name.” He was first taken to Balipatna CHC and later shifted to AIIMS Bhubaneswar, where he died despite medical efforts.

Police have detained Surendra Mathia, his wife, and their son Prashant for questioning. Investigators are examining the authenticity of the video and the circumstances under which it was recorded.

Neighbours reported hearing Jyoti’s cries before discovering him in a charred state.

The case has sparked public outrage and renewed calls for transparency in property-related disputes and domestic violence investigations.