Residents of MPV-26 village under Kalimela block in Odisha’s Malkangiri district were gripped by panic after a bear fell into a well on Friday morning. The animal was reportedly spotted roaming near the village late Thursday night before being found trapped inside the well at daybreak. Villagers immediately alerted the Forest Department, following which a rescue team rushed to the spot. Using safety nets and specialised equipment, forest officials successfully rescued the bear after nearly two hours. Forest veterinarians examined the animal and confirmed its condition to be stable. Officials said the bear may have entered the village in search of food and will be released back into the forest after treatment and observation.