At least 25 people, including eight children, were attacked by a suspected rabid stray dog at a Durga Puja pandal in the Kalain area of Cachar district on Sunday evening, where hundreds of devotees had gathered for prayers.
Three of the injured sustained deep-tissue lacerations to their limbs and faces, hospital authorities said. All 25 have since been administered the anti-rabies vaccine (ARV) and Equine Rabies Immunoglobulin (ERIG) under medical supervision.
Witnesses said the animal suddenly charged into the crowd, biting people indiscriminately before locals could intervene. The attack triggered a stampede-like rush at the venue.
Emergency medical teams arrived to administer first aid before the injured were taken to local hospitals.
Municipal corporation officials and local police launched an overnight emergency drive to locate and capture the animal.
The local administration has issued an advisory to pandal committees directing them to increase security deployment, improve lighting in dark alleys near festive venues, and report stray animals showing erratic behaviour to the helpline numbers provided.
