Bhadrak, Sept. 16 (UDN): A chicken shop owner was killed and his son critically injured after they were allegedly attacked by a group of men during a Ganesh idol immersion procession in Bhadrak district, police said.

The incident occurred on Tuesday night at Jena Sahi under Bhadrak Rural police station limits, within Randia panchayat. Preliminary reports suggest that previous enmity may have been behind the attack.

Father dies after violent assault

The deceased has been identified as Laxmidhar Jena, while his son Parshuram Jena sustained serious injuries in the assault.

According to reports, the duo was allegedly attacked by a group of assailants using glass bottles and sharp-edged weapons during the immersion festivities.

Laxmidhar suffered critical injuries and later succumbed to them. His son was also seriously injured and initially received treatment locally before his condition reportedly deteriorated.

Parshuram was subsequently shifted to SCB Medical College and Hospital in Cuttack for advanced treatment.

Previous dispute under scanner

Sources said Laxmidhar had reportedly been involved in a dispute with some local residents earlier, and police are examining whether the old rivalry was linked to the attack.

Following information about the incident, personnel from Bhadrak Rural police station reached the spot and began an investigation.

Four arrested

Police have arrested four persons in connection with the attack. Investigators are questioning the accused and examining the circumstances surrounding the violence.

Further investigation is underway to establish the exact sequence of events and determine the motive behind the attack.