A violent clash during a traditional Pala performance in Kasaba village under the Thalakudi panchayat of Jajpur district injured more than 20 people late Monday night.
The incident disrupted the concluding night of the three-day cultural programme at Kasaba Pala Mandap.
Residents of Bautra sahi and Jia sahi engaged in a heated confrontation over a trivial issue. Eyewitnesses reported that groups hurled stones and glass bottles and attacked each other with sticks. The sudden outbreak of violence shocked villagers and forced the suspension of the event.
Baina Mallick, a resident of Jia sahi, alleged that tensions had been brewing before the programme. He claimed that Bautra Sahi members stayed away from the joint organisation this year and deliberately created disturbances. He further alleged that attackers targeted children during the event, sparking chaos.
The clash injured more than 20 villagers, many of whom required medical attention. Villagers expressed concern that the intent behind the violence was to disrupt harmony and break the long-standing tradition of the annual Pala.
Police from Mangalpur station rushed to the spot and controlled the situation. Forces remain deployed in Kasaba village to prevent further escalation. Authorities confirmed that an investigation is underway to identify those responsible for the violence.
