Berhampur/Ganjam, May 23: A horrifying incident unfolded in Patapur police station limits of Mahanala village, Ganjam district, where a six-year-old boy was brutally attacked by a pack of stray dogs.

The victim, identified as Arus Kumar Gouda, was playing in the courtyard of his house when more than five stray dogs surrounded him and launched a violent attack. Before family members could intervene, the dogs mauled the child, tearing away part of his skull. Eyewitnesses reported that one of the dogs was seen running away with a piece of the boy’s skull in its jaws.

The child was rushed to Digapahandi hospital and later shifted to MKCG Medical College and Hospital in Brahmapur due to his critical condition. Doctors have confirmed that he remains in serious state and is undergoing intensive treatment.

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The incident has triggered panic and fear in the local community, with residents expressing concern over the growing menace of stray dogs in the area. Families have reported increasing attacks in recent months, raising urgent questions about public safety and stray dog management.

Local authorities are expected to review measures to control the stray dog population and prevent further tragedies. Meanwhile, the boy’s family and villagers remain in shock, praying for his recovery.

This incident highlights the pressing need for effective stray dog control programs and improved safety measures in rural and urban Odisha, where unchecked dog populations have become a recurring threat to children and vulnerable residents.

This story is compiled by Manisha Dhal.