Baripada, Nov 8: A fun trip turned into a life-threatening one for a teen after he suffered critical injuries during his visit to a fair (mela). As per a report, the 16-year-old boy was stabbed near the Bhanjpur Railway Station on Friday night while he was visiting the Jagadhatri Mela in Baripada.

The victim, identified as Akash Nayak from Palasadiha village under Kalabadia Panchayat in Bangiriposhi police limits, was reportedly attacked following an altercation during the fair.

According to eyewitnesses, the incident occurred when Akash, along with his friends, had come to enjoy the popular Jagadhatri Mela. A sudden scuffle broke out near the railway station, escalating into violence. Amid the chaos, an unidentified individual allegedly attacked Akash with a sharp weapon, leaving him severely injured.

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Local bystanders immediately rushed the bleeding teenager to the District Headquarters Hospital (DHH) in Baripada, where he received initial treatment. Due to the severity of his injuries, doctors referred him to SCB Medical College and Hospital in Cuttack for advanced care.

The motive behind the attack remains unclear, though preliminary reports suggest it may have stemmed from a personal dispute or a confrontation during the fair.

The Railway Protection Force (RPF) has launched an investigation into the matter and is reviewing CCTV footage from the area to identify the assailant.

The incident has sparked concern among locals and fairgoers. The Jagadhatri Mela attracts thousands of visitors from across the region. Authorities have assured that security will be tightened in and around the mela premises to prevent such incidents in future.

Reports suggest that Akash’s condition remains critical, and his family is anxiously awaiting updates from the hospital.