Man stoned to death in Balangir's Baghmund village; four arrested
Mukunda Sahu, 27, was beaten to death with bricks and stones in Baghmund village, Balangir, after a Rath Yatra dispute led to mistaken identity.
A 27-year-old man, Mukunda Sahu, was allegedly beaten to death with bricks and stones by a group of assailants at Baghmund village under Laramha police limits in Balangir district on Sunday night, according to police. The incident was reported by PNN and updated on July 28th, 2026 at 09:36 IST. Mukunda Sahu was identified as the only son of the late Brundaban Sahu.
What led to the attack?
According to police, the assault arose from a dispute that occurred during the Rath Yatra celebrations in the area. The accused told investigators that they had intended to attack one of Mukunda Sahu’s relatives but, when Mukunda emerged from his house, they mistakenly identified him as their intended target. The group then struck Mukunda with bricks and stones, inflicting severe head and chest injuries. He was rushed to Patnagarh Sub-divisional Hospital, where medical staff declared him dead due to the extent of his injuries.
What action have police taken?
Based on a complaint filed by Mukunda Sahu’s mother, police registered a murder case. Officers apprehended four men: Rinkal Bariha, aged 25; Sameer Bariha, aged 19; Lingaraj Bariha, also known as Chhalu, aged 45; and Rohit Bariha, aged 21. A juvenile who was also involved in the incident was taken into custody and subsequently sent to a correction home, as per standard procedure for minors. During interrogation, the accused confessed to their roles in the attack, a detail confirmed by police officials. The investigation remains under the jurisdiction of the Laramha police limits, and the case proceeds under the murder charges registered at the Patnagarh Sub-divisional Hospital’s records.
The tragedy has drawn attention to the potential for violence during festive gatherings, with local officials urging community leaders to promote peaceful observances of cultural events such as the Rath Yatra. No further statements have been released by the families of the accused or the victim beyond the complaint lodged by Mukunda Sahu’s mother.
Who was the victim in the Balangir stoning case?
The victim was Mukunda Sahu, a 27-year-old son of late Brundaban Sahu.
Where did the incident occur?
The incident took place in Baghmund village under Laramha police limits in Balangir district.
When did the attack happen?
The attack occurred on Sunday night, as reported in the July 28, 2026 article.
How did Mukunda Sahu die?
He was beaten to death with bricks and stones, sustaining severe head and chest injuries.
What was the motive behind the attack?
The assault stemmed from a dispute during Rath Yatra celebrations; the accused intended to assault one of Mukunda’s relatives but mistook Mukunda for their target.
Who were the arrested accused?
Police arrested Rinkal Bariha (25), Sameer Bariha (19), Lingaraj Bariha alias Chhalu (45), and Rohit Bariha (21).
What happened to a juvenile involved in the case?
A juvenile involved in the case was sent to a correction home.
What legal action was taken by police?
A murder case was registered based on a complaint filed by the victim’s mother.
Did the accused confess during interrogation?
Yes, the accused confessed during police interrogation.
Where was the victim declared dead?
Mukunda Sahu was declared dead at Patnagarh Sub-divisional Hospital.
Suresh Sahu
Senior District Correspondent, Balangir
Suresh Sahu has reported on Balangir district for the Mirror since 2020, focusing on drought-relief policy, health infrastructure, and district politics.
View all articles by Suresh →
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