Group clash over road work dispute leaves 5 injured in Odisha’s Keonjhar

At least five persons were injured following a violent clash between two groups over an alleged road construction dispute in Inchola-Paramanandapur villages under Anandapur subdivision of Keonjhar district, on Sunday morning.

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According to sources, the fatal incident has taken place at Inchola village within the limits of Nandipada Police Station over a road construction work which is underway at Inchola village in the district. Tension had been brewing for the last few days between two local groups over the execution of the road work.

On Sunday morning, when construction work resumed, members of both groups came face-to-face, leading to a heated argument. The situation soon spiralled out of control, resulting in stone pelting and physical assaults.

More than five people sustained injuries in the clash and were taken for medical treatment. The violence created panic in the village, disrupting normal life.

Following the incident, police rushed to the spot and deployed forces in the area to prevent further escalation. Authorities have initiated steps to restore law and order and are closely monitoring the situation to ensure peace is maintained in the village.

“A construction work is underway on Bhotapada-Paramanandapur village road. Today, after I reached the site to work there, some local residents hurled abusive language at me and attacked me. I am a daily wager. How would I manage my household expenses if I do not work?” an injured resident from Inchola village, Satyananda Jena, questioned in the hospital when contacted.

“I was attacked on my head and hands in the presence of police,” Satyananda stated.

However, no comments were received from the local police in this regard.

Reported By: Muna Singh