Youth stabbed to death during festival celebrations in Odisha’s Balipatna, accused on the run

Balipatna, Odisha: A youth was brutally stabbed to death at Nathasahi village under Balipatna police limits late on Tuesday night, triggering panic and anger among local residents.

The incident occurred at around 11 pm on the second day of the Triveni Mahotsav celebrations. The deceased has been identified as 18-year-old Lipuna Nath, a resident of Nathasahi village. According to preliminary information, Lipuna was allegedly attacked and stabbed by another youth of the same village, Mithun Nath, following a heated argument.

After the attack, the accused reportedly fled the spot. Upon receiving information, Balipatna police rushed to the scene and launched an investigation. The body was first taken to the Balipatna Community Health Centre, where doctors declared the youth dead, and was later sent to Capital Hospital for post-mortem examination. Police have also detained members of the accused’s family for questioning as part of the investigation.

Lipuna Nath was the only son of Umesh Nath. The incident has sparked outrage in the village, with locals alleging that the accused had a history of criminal activities and frequently threatened people by displaying sharp weapons. Villagers claimed that multiple complaints had previously been lodged against him.

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The victim’s father and sister informed the police that Lipuna had an argument with someone over the phone a day before the incident, which may be linked to the killing.

Police officials said all possible angles are being examined, and efforts are underway to trace and arrest the absconding accused. Further details are expected to emerge after the investigation and post-mortem report.