Balasore Youth Murder Sparks Highway Blockade

Balasore, Odisha: Tension gripped Junabalada village in Balasore district after a 24‑year‑old youth, Sanjit Mallick, was brutally hacked to death by four assailants on Thursday evening.

The attack, carried out with sharp weapons, is believed to be linked to a dispute over a mobile phone theft case reported two months ago.

Although both groups had earlier signed a settlement at the panchayat level, hostilities resurfaced, leading to the fatal assault.

Sanjit sustained severe injuries and was declared dead at Remuna Hospital.

In protest, villagers staged a blockade on National Highway‑16 at Junabalada Chhak, burning tyres and halting traffic for nearly four hours.

The agitation disrupted vehicular movement until late at night.

Police engaged in prolonged discussions with the protesters and eventually cleared the road after 11 pm.

Authorities confirmed that three suspects have been detained, while the prime accused, Aniket, is undergoing treatment at a hospital.

The incident has reignited concerns over local disputes escalating into violent confrontations.