A disturbing incident has emerged from the Bharatpur police precinct in Bhubaneswar, Odisha, as extortion activities resurface in the city ahead of the Ganesh Puja festivities. A young man was reportedly assaulted with a sword after he refused to contribute to a puja donation.

The victim, identified as Anshuman Patnaik, resides in Durgamadhab Nagar and operates a self-drive car rental business. According to reports, the attack occurred around 9:30 PM last night while Anshuman was near the Ayurvedic Hospital. He was confronted by four assailants who attacked him without provocation due to his refusal to pay the demanded donation.

During the altercation, Anshuman’s maternal uncle intervened to assist him and sustained injuries from the sword attack as well. Anshuman was subsequently taken to a private hospital in critical condition.

In response to the incident, a complaint was filed at the Bharatpur Police Station, prompting authorities to launch an investigation, which includes reviewing CCTV footage from the vicinity to identify the attackers.