When Siddhanta became a real-life hero

Odia actor and Berhampur MP Siddhanta Mahapatra made his turn as a real life hero on Sunday when he saved a woman who was allegedly set on fire in Bhubaneswar. The victim, a neighbour of the MP, was out in the street seeking help when the BJD MP came to her rescue.

It was during afternoon hours on Sunday that the actor-turned-politician, who lives in Kharavela Nagar area of the City, heard Nilam’s call for help and came out to find her in flames right in front his house.

The woman was in her petticoat and blouse, fervently trying to douse the fire when the MP brought her inside and his doctor parents provided the preliminary treatment. Then Siddhanta called an ambulance and escorted her to the Capital Hospital immediately. Nilam Biswal, the victim, suffered about 40 per cent burns and has been shifted to SCB Medical College and Hospital at Cuttack.

Sidhant said the woman saved herself from grave injuries because she had taken off the synthetic saree she was wearing by the time she was out on the street.

“When I heard the commotion, I rushed outside to see the woman in flames. I had met her only once when I attended her wedding reception and could not recognise her. When she saw me, she asked for my help saying she has been set on fire,” the MP told.

Neighbours said the victim had, in the past, complained of ill treatment at the hands of her in-laws. A few days back too she had confided in a few locals about such fears.

“We are investigating into the matter and the victim’s husband and mother-in-law have been detained for questioning,” Assistant Commissioner of Police PK Patnaik said.