A violent clash erupted between two rival groups in Bhaulajodi village under Aali police station limits in Kendrapara district, Odisha n Tuesday evening.
The confrontation, reportedly fueled by political enmity, left at least 15 people injured, with four in serious condition and one critically wounded, necessitating transfer to SCB Medical College and Hospital in Cuttack. Other injured individuals are receiving treatment at medical facilities in Aali, Kendrapara, Cuttack, and Jajpur.
According to sources, the conflict began when a group of youths from Mulasahi village was passing through Bhaulajodi chhak. They were allegedly attacked by youths from a neighbouring village, who rammed their vehicle and assaulted them with deadly weapons, citing political rivalries.
During the scuffle, one car was set ablaze, and four two-wheelers were damaged, escalating tensions in the area. While one group claimed the attack was premeditated, attempts to contact the opposing group for their version of events were unsuccessful.
The clash has created a tense atmosphere in Aali, with locals fearing further violence. To maintain law and order, police forces from Aali, Rajkanika, and Pattamundai have been deployed, and the Pattamundai SDPO is closely monitoring the situation.
As of now, no formal case has been registered at Aali police station, but investigations are underway to ascertain the exact cause and identify the perpetrators.
This incident highlights the growing concern over politically motivated violence in rural Odisha, raising questions about community harmony and the role of law enforcement in preventing such clashes.
