Tensions escalated in the Rajamunda area under Debagada municipality on Wednesday morning as angry residents staged a major road blockade on the old National Highway, placing the body of a 45-year-old local man who succumbed to injuries following a violent mob attack.
The deceased has been identified as Hadu Naik (45), a resident of Rajamunda.
According to local sources, the incident occurred on the night of September 20 when Hadu and a few of his friends were gathered in the area. Unexpectedly, a group of more than ten youths arrived at the scene and launched a brutal, coordinated attack on them. Hadu sustained critical injuries during the assault.
He was initially rushed to the District Headquarters Hospital (DHH) in Debagada. As his condition deteriorated rapidly, medical staff transferred him to VIMSAR in Burla for advanced treatment. Despite medical efforts, Hadu succumbed to his injuries while undergoing treatment.
When his mortal remains were brought back to his locality on Wednesday morning, outraged residents gathered to demand justice. Placing the body directly across the old National Highway, the protesters blocked all traffic, demanding the immediate arrest of every individual involved in the attack and adequate financial compensation for the victim’s family.
Upon receiving information about the blockade, a team from Debagada Police Station rushed to the spot to pacify the demonstrative crowd and restore order. As of Wednesday morning, underlying tension remains high in the area, with police attempting to negotiate with the victim’s family and local leaders to clear the highway.
