TV
A tragic road accident in Odisha’s Kalahandi district took a turbulent turn, as widespread anger over the death of a local youth escalated into a violent protest, resulting in clashes with police and the injury of several law enforcement personnel.
The unrest broke out in Thuamul Rampur, a remote block of Kalahandi, following a fatal two-wheeler accident at Lathiaguda Chhak on Sunday evening. According to reports, two individuals—Firoz and Dipendra—were involved in a serious motorcycle crash.
While both were initially rushed to the hospital in critical condition, Firoz succumbed to his injuries during treatment, sending shockwaves through his native village, Dumer Padar. Dipendra, meanwhile, continues to battle for his life at Burla Medical College and Hospital.
The situation spiralled out of control when grieving family members, along with hundreds of villagers, gathered to demand compensation for the deceased’s family. The demonstrators marched to Thuamul Rampur police station, blocking key roads and effectively bringing the area to a standstill.
Tensions heightened quickly as the protesters began hurling stones at the police station, accusing the authorities of inaction and demanding justice. The police, caught off-guard by the sudden violence, struggled to control the mob. At least nine police personnel were injured in the stone-pelting, some of whom required urgent medical attention.
In response to the violent outbreak, the police have detained four individuals believed to have led or incited the attack on the police station.
Meanwhile, the two bike riders allegedly responsible for the accident were earlier arrested and produced before court by local police. Preliminary investigations suggest rash and negligent driving as the cause of the crash, though further inquiries are ongoing.
