A solemn journey to perform last rites turned into a nightmare in the holy town of Puri, resulting in the tragic death of a 38-year-old man. The incident, stemming from a seemingly minor disagreement, occurred near Swargadwar on Thursday night and has sent shockwaves through the community.
Altercation Over Loud Conversation Turns Deadly
Ranjan Kumar Das, a resident of Bhadrak district, had travelled to Puri with a group to cremate the body of a relative of his friend, Manas Nayak. Around midnight, the group of six friends and relatives reached Swargadwar for the final rituals. As they required a coconut for the ceremony, Ranjan, along with Manas Nayak (35), another friend Abhiram Barik, and their driver Prakash Jena, went to purchase one.
While walking near Chaitanya Square, their path was blocked by Tanmay Mahapatra, a 30-year-old local from Bali Sahi. Tanmay allegedly objected to the group's loud conversation. What began as a verbal spat quickly escalated into a physical confrontation. During the heated argument between Ranjan and Tanmay, the accused suddenly pulled out a knife concealed at his waist and slit Ranjan's throat.
Chaos and Chase: Friend Injured in Attack
Ranjan collapsed on the spot, bleeding profusely. As the other three men attempted to flee the scene in terror, Tanmay chased them. He caught up with Manas Nayak and stabbed him in the chest and hand, inflicting serious injuries. Alert locals rushed both victims to a nearby hospital. Tragically, doctors declared Ranjan Kumar Das dead on arrival. Manas Nayak was admitted for treatment of his wounds.
Meanwhile, brave locals managed to overpower the accused, Tanmay Mahapatra, and informed the police. Personnel from the Sea Beach police station reached the spot promptly and took the assailant into custody.
Aftermath and Police Investigation
After being discharged from the hospital, the injured friend, Manas Nayak, lodged a formal written complaint at the police station. Ranjan's body was sent to the Puri district headquarters hospital for a post-mortem examination. It was later transported to his native village, Apanda in Bhadrak district, where his final rites were performed. Ranjan Kumar Das is survived by his wife, two minor children, and his parents.
Speaking on the case, Puri SP Prateek Singh stated that the preliminary investigation confirmed the murder was the result of a verbal altercation that spiraled into a violent fight. The police have arrested the accused, and a detailed probe is underway. This senseless act of violence has cast a shadow over the pilgrimage town, raising concerns about public safety.
