Violence / Ganesh Idol Immersion Turns Deadly in Bhadrak

Bhadrak, Sep 16: A brutal murder during Ganesh immersion has shocked Bhadrak district, exposing long‑standing enmity and repeated police inaction. The incident occurred at Jena Sahi under Raandia panchayat, leaving one dead and another critically injured.

According to reports, Laxmidhar Jena, a poultry shop owner, was attacked by a group of miscreants on Tuesday evening.

Earlier in the day, the same group had allegedly abused him and looted chickens and other items from his shop. Later, they returned during Ganesh immersion festivities and launched a violent assault.

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Armed with sharp weapons and glass bottles, the attackers targeted Laxmidhar and his son Parshuram. Laxmidhar died on the spot, while Parshuram sustained severe injuries and was shifted to SCB Medical College in Cuttack for treatment.

The victim’s daughter‑in‑law, Pooja Jena, accused the attackers of harassing the family for years. “For years we have faced disputes with villagers. First they broke our doors, then set our house on fire. They even attacked my father‑in‑law, brother‑in‑law, and husband. Police never listened. Now they have taken a life,” she alleged.

The murder has triggered outrage across the locality, with residents questioning how such repeated violence could continue unchecked. The family claims they had lodged complaints earlier, but no effective action was taken.

Police from Bhadrak rural station have begun an investigation, but the community remains tense. The killing during a religious procession has amplified fears of further clashes.