A shocking incident unfolded in Padmapur, Rayagada district, where a man was lynched by a mob on allegations of sorcery.
The victim, identified as Bhairab Sahoo from Hatapada Sahi, was brutally attacked with sticks late last night by a group of individuals.
The violence escalated when Padmapur police station officer Dharanidhar Pradhan attempted to intervene. He was assaulted, and the police vehicle was vandalised in the chaos. Swift action by Sub-Divisional Police Officer Babuli Nayak and the deployment of additional police forces helped bring the situation under control.
Sahoo was transported to Padmapur Community Health Centre, where he was declared dead. In response, authorities have taken swift action, arresting 28 people, including seven minors, connected to the incident.
With tensions running high, three platoons of police force have been stationed in the area to maintain law and order. The tragic event highlights the dangers of superstition-fueled violence and raises concerns over mob justice in parts of Odisha.
