Around 11 PM, several youths were detonating fireworks in the ward. Naresh Kumar, a resident, requested them to stop due to the noise. This request angered three youths, identified as Hemant, Dinesh, and Sunil, leading to a heated argument. The dispute escalated from verbal abuse to physical violence. Though other residents intervened and calmed the situation, the peace was short-lived.

The three youths returned and, seizing an opportunity, attacked Naresh with a knife, stabbing him in the chest. Naresh collapsed on the spot, bleeding profusely.

Local residents rushed Naresh to the Dhamtari District Hospital, where he succumbed to his injuries. A video of the incident has emerged, showing the youths involved in the altercation. Upon receiving the information, the Kotwali police arrived at the scene and arrested the three accused. ASP Manishankar Chandra confirmed that a murder case has been registered, and legal proceedings are underway.

The incident has cast a pall of fear and sorrow over the entire ward. The senseless killing, triggered by a simple request, has raised questions about the decline of tolerance in society. The administration has urged residents to maintain peace and abide by the law.