A conflict between ‘Akhada’ groups during a Muharram procession in Odisha’s Baleswar town left at least four people injured following a dispute over performance order, police reported on Saturday.
The altercation broke out at Dargha Maidan in Baleswar town during the early hours of Friday morning, resulting in four injuries. However, police personnel reacted swiftly to contain the unrest and restore order, according to a police official.
Police sources indicated that the argument initially began between two individuals during the ‘Akhada’ procession and ‘Badi Khel’ display. The dispute rapidly intensified into stone-throwing, causing a few injuries, but immediate intervention by on-duty police officers prevented further escalation.
Baleswar Superintendent of Police Pratyush Diwakar stated, “Around 3.45 am, an altercation took place between Akhada group number 1 and 9 over which group would perform first, and group number 2 and 6 joined in the stone-pelting. At least four people received minor injuries.”
The SP urged the public to remain calm and avoid circulating unverified rumours.
