Paralakhemundi: A pall of gloom has descended upon Paralakhemundi following the tragic demise of an entire family. Subhashis Panigrahi, a resident of the town, passed away today at MKCG Medical College and Hospital in Berhampur. This follows the deaths of his eight-year-old son, Bijayananda, who succumbed earlier at the District Headquarters Hospital in Paralakhemundi, and his 11-year-old daughter, Priyadarshini, who also breathed her last at MKCG Medical College and Hospital.
According to reports, Shri Panigrahi allegedly administered poison to his two children before consuming it himself. Relatives discovered the gravely ill trio and rushed them to Paralakhemundi Hospital for immediate medical attention. Sadly, young Bijayananda could not survive and passed away at the local hospital. Due to their critical condition, both Subhashis and Priyadarshini were subsequently transferred to the MKCG Medical College and Hospital in Berhampur. Despite medical efforts, both father and daughter succumbed to the effects of the poison.
The devastating incident has left the community in shock and disbelief. While the precise motive behind this extreme step remains unknown, initial suspicions point towards the profound grief and mental distress suffered by Subhashis Panigrahi following the recent death of his wife, Sweta, on March 21, 2025. Sources close to the family suggest that Shri Panigrahi was reportedly struggling to cope with the loss.
Police have initiated an investigation into the tragic incident. They are expected to record statements from relatives and neighbors to ascertain the circumstances that led to this heartbreaking end for the Panigrahi family. The loss of all three lives has sent shockwaves through Paralakhemundi, leaving behind a void and raising serious concerns about the importance of mental health support in times of grief and distress.