Balangir: Following a dispute over a card game, a teenager was allegedly stabbed to death in Balangir district on Wednesday.

According to preliminary information, a group of teenagers were playing cards on a street in Rota village under Agalpur block when an argument broke out between Sahil Patel and Kunal Bariha over an alleged wrong move during the game.

The argument reportedly escalated after Sahil allegedly hit Kunal over the dispute. Kunal then allegedly went inside his house, brought a knife and stabbed Sahil in the chest.

Sahil was rushed in critical condition to the Agalpur government hospital, where doctors declared him dead.

Locals reportedly placed the deceased’s body at the Salebhata police outpost and demanded action against the alleged illegal trade of narcotics and cough syrup in the area.

Rise in substance abuse among minors

Villagers alleged substance abuse among minors has been increasing in Rota village and claimed some children consume illegally sold cough syrup. They expressed concern that substance abuse could be contributing to violent incidents over minor disputes.

Sahil’s elder brother, who said he was present at the scene, alleged the murder occurred over the card game.

“I was also present at the scene. After Sahil beat Kunal over the wrong move, Kunal went inside his house and brought a knife before stabbing Sahil,” he said.

Asked why he could not save his younger brother, Sahil’s elder brother said he had gone to a nearby shop when the stabbing occurred.

Expressing concern over substance use among minors, Sahil’s uncle alleged the accused minor was consuming intoxicating substances, including drugs and cough syrup, based on information shared by villagers.

Sahil’s father has demanded justice for his son.

On being informed, Agalpur police reached the spot and sent the body to Bhima Bhoi Medical College and Hospital for post-mortem examination.

Police have detained the minor accused, Kunal Bariha, and are questioning him in connection with the incident. Further investigation is underway.