The victim, identified as Poonaram Sen alias Vicky, is the son of a local salon owner and assists in running the family business, “The Classic Cuts,” located near Patel Dairy on Road No. 18. Police said the incident occurred around 9.30 pm when Poonaram was returning home after closing the salon.

According to investigators, as he entered a narrow lane near his residence in Udiya Mohalla, an unidentified man who appeared to be waiting there suddenly attacked him with a knife. Eyewitnesses reported that the assailant had covered his face with a gamchha, making identification difficult. The attacker allegedly struck Poonaram in the back with apparent intent to kill, leaving him severely injured.

Hearing the victim’s cries, local residents rushed to the spot, but the assailant managed to flee under the cover of darkness before anyone could intervene. Family members and neighbours immediately shifted the injured youth to a nearby hospital, from where he was referred for advanced treatment. Doctors said Poonaram sustained serious injuries and remains under close observation in the ICU.

Senior police officers reached the scene soon after receiving information about the stabbing. Multiple teams have been formed to trace the accused, and investigators are scanning CCTV footage from nearby streets and commercial establishments. However, police said no decisive leads have emerged so far.

“We are questioning suspects from the area and examining footage from multiple cameras. Efforts are on to identify and arrest the attacker at the earliest,” a senior police official said.

The motive behind the assault remains unclear. Police said all possible angles, including personal rivalry, are being examined as part of the investigation.

The incident has triggered fear and anger among residents, who have demanded increased night patrolling and stricter policing in the area, citing a rise in violent incidents in recent weeks. Hospital sources said the victim’s condition remains critical but stable.