Ganjam youth killed in targeted attack following religious dispute

A fatal attack on National Highway-59 near Tatabali in Odisha’s Ganjam district has left one youth dead and another critically injured. The victims, identified as Krishna Gouda and Rajat Behera, were traveling on a motorcycle when a pickup van collided with them.

Following the collision, a group of individuals armed with sharp weapons allegedly attacked the two men before fleeing the scene. Krishna Gouda succumbed to his injuries while receiving medical treatment, while Rajat Behera remains under intensive care in Berhampur.

Authorities believe the violence is linked to a prior dispute that occurred during a Ganesh idol immersion procession in Suramani village several days ago. The Sorada police have launched an investigation and are searching for the suspects to prevent further tension in the area.