Angul, Aug. 20: A couple committed suicide at Kathapal village in Chhendipada police limits here by consuming poison last night.

The deceased were identified as Bibhuti Behera, 50, and his wife Hemalata, 45. The prolonged illness of Hemalata and financial constraints were said to be the reasons behind their suicide.

The couple had a daughter married off to one staying at Sapuanali some years ago.

Behera had a small patch of agricultural land, which used to sustain their family.But since the past one year, his wife had been paralysed. On her treatment, Behera had to spend a lot of money. He even had to sell some portions of his land and also incurred loans.

Police said thatlast night the couple consumed poison and fell ill. They were rushed to nearby Chendipada hospital where they died. "Family dispute arising out of monetary crisis might be the cause of suicide," said sub-divisional police officer R.N. Deo.