Student stabbed after dispute between rival school groups turns violent in Odisha

A violent incident unfolded in Kalahandi district’s Bhawanipatna town when a male student was stabbed on Friday near Lal Bahadur Shastri Stadium. The attack, allegedly involving rival school groups, has sparked outrage and tension among locals, prompting immediate police intervention.

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According to police sources, in a disturbing turn of events, the student was stabbed at the local Stadium. The injured student from Manikeswari High School is currently undergoing treatment in critical condition at District Headquarters Hospital (DHH) in the town.

The fatal attack stemmed from an altercation between the students of a private school and Manikeswari High School, both in Bhawanipatna. Though the exact motive remains unclear, tensions had been simmering since August 12, when both student groups clashed during a parade rehearsal at the same venue.

The victim’s family has lodged an FIR at Bhawanipatna Town Police Station, prompting an investigation. Following the incident, a large number of locals gathered outside the police station, leading to heightened tension in the premises.

Police are currently probing the matter, and efforts are underway to identify and apprehend those involved in the attack. Authorities have assured that strict action will be taken against the culprits.

“After the Independence Day celebration, prizes were distributed. Following which, a verbal spat had erupted between the students of Vikash Residential School and Manikeswari High School, which led to an assault between three students belonging to both parties. One student has been injured in the incident,” Kalahandi SP Nagraj Devarakonda said.

“The injured youth was immediately taken to the hospital and provided medical treatment. Two separate cases have been registered, and a probe has been initiated. Arrests will be made based on the investigation, and further action will follow,” Kalahandi SP stated.

“As it appears prima facie, the stabbing was not done with any knife but a sharp object. However, it can be ascertained after a detailed probe is over,” the SP added.

Reported By: Subham Rohila