Bolangir, Odisha, India – A series of brutal murders has left residents of Bolangir in shock, raising concerns about the escalating violence in the city. The community is accusing authorities of failing to address the growing threat of criminal activity in the area.
The string of killings began on April 10 in Sargad village, where a young man named Arun Sai was fatally beaten with sticks in what police believe to be a result of personal disputes. Two suspects have been taken into custody in connection with the case.
Two days later, in Bolangir town’s Chiminibhatipada area, a truck driver named Ram Das was brutally hacked to death in broad daylight, leaving bystanders stunned and highlighting worries about public safety. The police investigation into Das’s murder is ongoing, with no arrests made thus far.
In Karlapita village under Muribahal police station, a 60-year-old man named Bibhisan Dharua lost his life in a heated dispute with a relative, who allegedly used a stick to inflict fatal injuries. While a suspect has been apprehended, details surrounding the incident remain limited as authorities continue their inquiries.
The most recent tragedy occurred on April 13 in Bishnumunda, Bolangir city, where a youth named Manoj Naik fell victim to a chilling attack outside a shop. The assailant, identified as Biju Seth, cut nearby power lines to create darkness before striking Naik on the head with a sharp weapon, resulting in his tragic demise. As villagers rushed Naik to the hospital, he was pronounced dead on arrival, prompting a manhunt for Seth by the police.
The rapid succession of these murders has sparked fears within the community, with residents voicing concerns about Bolangir turning into a “crime city.” Many individuals believe that criminal elements are growing increasingly bold, with a lack of deterrence from law enforcement contributing to the surge in violent crime.
Despite the recent appointment of Abhilash G as the new Bolangir Superintendent of Police (SP), public dissatisfaction with the police’s ability to address the violence has been mounting. Calls for stronger law enforcement measures, increased patrols, and tackling issues like substance abuse are being echoed by community members seeking to combat the rising crime wave in the region.
As investigations into these tragic events continue, the people of Bolangir are grappling with fear and uncertainty, longing for a sense of security in the midst of escalating violence. The district administration faces mounting pressure to restore order and rebuild trust within a community left shaken by the recent bloodshed.