Clash erupts between two villages in Mayurbhanj over Anganwadi Centre

Tension gripped Salachua village under the Kaptipada block in Odisha’s Mayurbhanj district on Saturday after a confrontation broke out between residents of two neighbouring villages over the location and operation of an Anganwadi centre. 

The incident led to scuffles and unrest at the site, prompting police intervention to prevent the situation from escalating further.

According to sources, the Anganwadicentre in question was originally sanctioned for Salachua village, and all official approvals and documentation had reportedly been completed in its favour. As per the plan, children from the nearby Titia village were to attend the Anganwadi facility located in Salachua.

However, opposition from residents of Titia village allegedly led to the Anganwadi remaining non-functional for several years. On Friday night, repair work was reportedly initiated on an old and dilapidated Anganwadi structure in Titia village, triggering fresh tensions between the two communities.

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On Saturday morning, residents of Salachua reached the site and objected to the construction and repair work, alleging that the Anganwadi was being shifted without proper authorization. They demanded that the centre function at its originally sanctioned location in Salachua village. The disagreement soon escalated into a face-off between residents of both villages, resulting in heated arguments and minor scuffles.

Following information, personnel from the Kaptipada police station rushed to the spot and managed to pacify the situation. Police presence has been strengthened in the area to maintain law and order. Although no injuries have been officially reported, tension continues to prevail in the locality.

More details are awaited as authorities continue to monitor the situation.