A critically injured bear rescued after a violent mob attack near Daiguda Chhak under the Mathili forest range in Malkangiri district died during treatment.
Locals reportedly assaulted the animal with stones and sharp weapons for nearly four hours before forest officials intervened.
The injured bear was taken to the Mathili Forest Office for treatment, but succumbed to its injuries despite efforts to save it. Forest officials confirmed that the animal had sustained multiple deep wounds and severe trauma.
Assistant Conservator of Forests (ACF) Priyanka Mahuka supervised the post-mortem examination and visited the site to assess the situation. She said the department will identify those responsible and initiate strict action once the cause of the attack is fully established.
The Forest Department has begun an investigation into the incident and appealed to residents to avoid harming wild animals. Officials urged people to immediately inform forest authorities if any wildlife enters human settlements.
