Bolangir, Odisha : A rabid dog attack in Chinchera village under Tushura police limits has left the community in mourning, claiming the lives of 33-year-old national para-athlete Jogendra Chhatria and 48-year-old farmer Hrishikesh Rana. Both succumbed late Saturday night while receiving treatment at VIMSAR Medical College and Hospital, Burla.
The tragic chain of events began on July 23, when a rabid dog stormed into the village and attacked residents, including children on their way to school. The unprovoked attacks caused widespread panic, biting at least six people initially.
Jogendra’s brother, Babaji Kumar, recounted the attack: “Around 6 a.m., my brother was walking to the dam to bathe with a friend when the dog suddenly charged at him. He fell, and the dog bit his friend too. That day, it attacked 8–10 people in total.”
The injured were first treated at Bolangir District Headquarters Hospital and later referred to Burla for advanced care. While some victims recovered, Jogendra and Hrishikesh’s conditions worsened, despite intensive treatment. Doctors had warned their families that survival chances were minimal.
Jogendra, who was differently-abled, had brought pride to Odisha by competing in national para-athletics and representing India in international floorball championships. Hrishikesh was remembered as a kind-hearted farmer, always ready to help others and respected in the local community.
The incident has sparked grief and concern in Bolangir, prompting authorities to review animal control measures and rabies awareness programs to prevent similar tragedies in rural Odisha.
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