BERHAMPUR: A 13-year-old boy suffered critical injuries after being reportedly mauled by a bear in Bhanjanagar area of Ganjam district on Sunday.
The victim, Muna Pradhan of Koramaha village in Raikia block of Kandhamal district, has been hospitalised and his condition is stated to be critical. Sources said Muna had come to his sister’s house at Duba village under Indragarh panchayat in Bhanjanagar. The minor along with his relatives had gone to the nearby forest to collect dry leaves. All of a sudden, he came face-to-face with a bear and was attacked.
Muna’s sister said he suffered grievous injuries on his face and head in the attack. On hearing the boy’s screams, others reached the spot and managed to chase the bear away.
The minor was immediately taken to Bhanjanagar sub-divisional hospital. After primary treatment, he was shifted to MKCG Medical College and Hospital, Berhampur due to severity of his injuries.
Villagers said Muna’s condition is critical and urged the government to provide assistance for his treatment as he hails from a poor family.