Jajpur: Tension gripped Kasaba village under Thalakudi panchayat in Dasarathapur block of Odisha’s Jajpur district after a violent group clash left over 20 people injured during a traditional Pala performance.

Violence breaks out between two sahis over ‘trivial’ issue

According to reports, the clash erupted on Monday night between residents of two sahis—Bautra sahi and Jia sahi—over what was described as a trivial issue during the concluding night of a three-day Pala event held at the Kasaba Pala Mandap.

Stones, bottles, and sticks used in late-night clash

Eyewitnesses said the situation escalated quickly as groups from both sides allegedly resorted to pelting stones and glass bottles, while also attacking each other with sticks. The sudden outbreak of violence disrupted the cultural programme and led to injuries among more than 20 villagers.

Allegations of pre-planned disruption

A resident of Jia sahi, Baina Mallick, alleged that tensions had been brewing prior to the event. He claimed that while both sahis traditionally organise the annual Pala jointly, members of Bautra sahi had stayed away this year and were suspected of planning to create disturbances.

“We had information about a possible untoward incident and were on alert. The programme went smoothly for the first two nights. However, on the final night, some people came and created chaos by attacking our children on the pretext of making fun during the event,” he said.

Mallick further alleged that the intent behind the clash was to disrupt harmony and break the village’s long-standing tradition.

Police deployed to restore normalcy in Kasaba village

Following the incident, personnel from Mangalpur police station rushed to the spot and brought the situation under control. Police forces have been deployed in the village to prevent further escalation and maintain law and order.

An investigation into the incident is currently underway.