A chilling wave of violence has gripped Bolangir district, with four brutal murders reported in just three days, transforming the once-peaceful region into a hub of fear and unrest.
The alarming frequency of these heinous crimes has left residents shaken, with many accusing authorities of failing to curb the growing menace of criminal activity.
The string of murders began on April 10 in Sargad village, under Bolangir Sadar police station. Arun Sai, a young man, was beaten to death with sticks in a violent assault. Police investigations point to personal disputes as the motive, and two suspects have been detained in connection with the case.
On April 12, the violence escalated in Bolangir town’s Chiminibhatipada area, where Ram Das, a truck driver, was hacked to death with an axe in broad daylight. The audacious attack carried out on a busy street, stunned onlookers and amplified concerns about public safety. No arrests have been made, and the police are still probing the circumstances surrounding Das’s death.
That same night, in Karlapita village under Muribahal police station, a 60-year-old man, Bibhisan Dharua, was killed by a relative during a heated altercation. The assailant reportedly used a stick to inflict fatal injuries. Authorities have taken a suspect into custody, but details remain scarce as the investigation continues.
The most recent killing occurred on April 13 in Bishnumunda, Bolangir city, where Manoj Naik, a youth, was murdered in a chilling attack. Around 8 PM, Naik was sitting outside a shop when an assailant, identified by locals as Biju Seth, a known substance abuser, severed nearby power lines to plunge the area into darkness. Seth then approached Naik and struck him on the head with a sharp weapon before fleeing. Despite efforts by villagers to rush Naik to Bhima Bhoi Medical College Hospital, doctors pronounced him dead on arrival. Police have launched a manhunt for Seth, with Sadar SDPO Saroj Upadhyay assuring the public that efforts to apprehend the suspect are in full swing.
The rapid succession of these murders has fueled allegations that Bolangir is fast becoming a “crime city.” Residents claim that criminal groups are growing bolder, emboldened by the release of accused individuals from custody in prior cases. Many point to a lack of fear among criminals, who seem undeterred by police actions, as a key factor driving the surge in violent crime.
Critics argue that despite the appointment of Abhilash G as the new Bolangir Superintendent of Police (SP), the police have been unable to stem the tide of violence. Public discontent is mounting, with community members demanding stronger law enforcement measures, increased patrolling, and action to address issues like substance abuse, which locals believe is contributing to the crime wave.
As investigations continue, the people of Bolangir are left grappling with fear and uncertainty, wondering when the next tragedy will strike. The district administration faces growing pressure to restore order and rebuild trust in a community rattled by bloodshed.
