Two men sustained serious injuries after a wild bear attacked them in the Muribahal forest range of Bolangir district.
The victims, identified as Karan Nag (33) of Kutunijharan village and Janmaya Majhi (35) of Ranisilet area, had gone to the forest to collect edible roots when the bear suddenly charged at them.
The attack left Karan with deep wounds on his face, back, and right arm, while Janmaya suffered severe injuries to his leg after the bear bit him. Local villagers rushed to their aid and moved them to the Muribahal Community Health Centre. Doctors provided initial treatment but referred them to Bhima Bhoi Medical College and Hospital in Balangir due to their critical condition. Later, one of the victims was shifted to Raipur in Chhattisgarh for advanced care.
Forest officials confirmed that bear attacks have become frequent in Balangir’s forested areas. On April 27, a 62-year-old man from Mahulbahali village was attacked by a bear while going for sanitation in Nuapada under Turekela block.
Residents expressed fear over the recurring incidents and demanded proper compensation and assistance for the affected families. Authorities assured that medical support and relief measures will be extended.
The repeated bear attacks highlight the growing conflict between humans and wildlife in Balangir, raising concerns about safety in rural forest zones.
