Nayagada: A man was allegedly beaten to death in Panderipatna village under the Itamati police station limits in Nayagada district on Tuesday, following a suspected dispute linked to an old village quarrel.
The deceased has been identified as Pitabas Khatua of Panderipatna village.
According to reports, the incident took place in the afternoon when Pitabas was allegedly intercepted and abducted by a group of persons, including individuals from a neighbouring village. He was later taken to a secluded spot near Baghara village, where he was reportedly assaulted.
The attack is suspected to have stemmed from a dispute that occurred nearly two weeks ago over cattle grazing in paddy fields, which had damaged crops and led to a confrontation between the parties, reports said.
After the alleged assault, the victim was found critically injured by locals, who informed his family members. He was rushed to Nayagada District Headquarters Hospital (DHH), where doctors declared him dead shortly after admission.
A doctor treating the patient said he had sustained multiple injuries and was in a critical condition upon arrival.
“The patient, Pitabas, had injuries in different areas, including the left leg, right leg, and right hand. He complained of severe abdominal pain and was disoriented. The patient’s family alleged that 3 to 4 people beat him. He succumbed about 10 to 15 minutes after reaching the hospital. Around 7:15 pm, he was declared dead. We are conducting a post-mortem, and further details will be known after the report comes,” said Dr. Bishnupriya Khuntia.
Following the incident, Itamati police reached the spot and initiated an investigation. Police said efforts are underway to verify the exact sequence of events and identify those involved.
Further investigation is in progress.
