A couple from Madhya Pradesh was allegedly assaulted by a mob in Nimapur village of Odisha’s Kendrapara district on suspicion of being “child lifters.” The incident occurred while the duo was selling plastic and stationery items in the village, police reported.

The victims, identified as Santosh Banjara (48) and his wife Mamata Singh Banjara (45), were targeted after rumors spread about their involvement in child abduction. The mob, acting on the unverified suspicion, allegedly attacked them, leaving the couple injured.

Local police intervened promptly, rescuing the couple from the situation. They were immediately taken to a nearby health center for medical attention.

An investigation has been initiated to identify the perpetrators and curb the spread of such baseless rumors that often lead to mob violence.

Authorities have urged the public not to act on rumors and to report suspicious activities to the police instead of taking matters into their own hands. The incident has raised concerns about the rising trend of mob justice fueled by misinformation in rural areas.