Sambalpur: A suspended sanitation worker allegedly stabbed Sambalpur University’s (SU) Head of the Department (HOD) of Chemistry, Professor Satyanarayan Sahu, Friday morning, leaving him seriously injured. Professor Sahu was admitted to Veer Surendra Sai Institute of Medical Sciences and Research (VIMSAR) in Burla, where he is undergoing treatment.
University authorities said he was out of danger. The accused, identified as Krupasindhu Bag, a suspended university sanitation worker, fled the scene after the attack. Additional Superintendent of Police Ajay Kumar Mishra said the incident took place at around 9:30 am when Professor Sahu was on his way to the Chemistry Department on the university campus. The accused allegedly launched a sudden attack on him with a knife.
The professor sustained se rious injuries to his abdomen and other parts of his body. He reportedly tried to defend himself but was unable to stop the attacker. Students present in the department rescued him in a blood-soaked condition and immediately rushed him to VIMSAR for treatment.
Police reached the spot after receiving information about the incident and launched an investigation. The motive behind the attack remains unclear.
However, the accused had reportedly been suspended from his sanitation duties at the university over alleged misconduct. Investigators suspect that resentment over his suspension may have prompted the attack, although this has not yet been established.
Following a complaint lodged by university authorities, Burla police registered a case (458/26) and launched a search operation to trace and arrest the accused. Raids are being conducted at several locations. The investigation is underway.