What happened to Laxman Parida in Korabandi village?

Laxman Parida, a 58-year-old man, fought off a sloth bear with a stick in Korabandi village, Jajpur district, sustaining injuries to his back and leg.

Why are bear attacks common in the villages around Korabandi?

According to the villagers, bear attacks have become common in the villages around Korabandi and its nearby areas, but the authorities have not taken any action to provide proper protection.

How did the forest department respond to Laxman Parida's incident?

The forest range officer, Dharmendra Pradhan, stated that bears are protected under the Wildlife Protection Act and cannot be harmed. He also said the forest department will cover Laxman's medical expenses.

Home / Disasters and Accidents / Villager Fights Off Sloth Bear with Stick, Sustains Injuries

Villager Fights Off Sloth Bear with Stick, Sustains Injuries

8 Nov, 2025

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Summary

58-year-old man attacked by sloth bear in Korabandi village
Laxman Parida fought off the bear with a stick, sustaining back and leg injuries
Bear attacks common in villages around Korabandi, villagers seek protection

Villager Fights Off Sloth Bear with Stick, Sustains Injuries

In a remarkable display of bravery, a 58-year-old man from Korabandi village in Jajpur district, Odisha fought off a sloth bear with a simple stick on November 4th, 2025. Laxman Parida was returning home from the local market through a protected forest area when the bear suddenly attacked him from behind.

Laxman did not back down, however, and instead fought the animal off with a stick. "I escaped by fighting the animal off with a stick," he said. Villager Alekha Parida confirmed that Laxman was saved as the bear eventually gave in to his determined defense. Unfortunately, Laxman suffered injuries to his back and leg during the encounter and is currently undergoing treatment at the district headquarters hospital in Jajpur.