Sambalpur: Violence Erupts at Khetrajpur Dahi Handi; Clash Between Two Groups Leads to Stone Pelting, Knife Attack, and Injured Police Officers
Police Officers Injured in Stone Pelting Incident
Sambalpur: On Thursday evening, chaos broke out at the Dahi Handi festival in Khetrajpur, Sambalpur. A violent clash broke out between two groups over the Handi, resulting in stone-throwing and injuries to several police officers. The situation became more serious when miscreants launched a surprise attack on the police, injuring four officers. To maintain order, a large number of police officers were deployed to the area, and night patrols were increased.
Knife Attack Adds to Tension
As tensions escalated, a knife attack was reported, exacerbating the situation. A young man from the Station Pada area allegedly attacked another youth from Pardeshi Pada with a knife near his home. Fortunately, the victim suffered only hand injuries and was immediately taken to the hospital for treatment. His condition is now stable.
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Festival Incident Sparks Conflict
The incident took place when a group of youths from Pardeshi Pada attempted to break the Handi during the festival near Khetrajpur Market. Meanwhile, children from Station Pada made comments that resulted in a fight. During the altercation, some Pardeshi Pada players who were climbing to break the Handi fell on the Station Pada children, causing a heated exchange. This quickly escalated into a full-fledged fight between the two groups, with each side attacking the other and hurling stones.
Police Intervention and Aftermath
Police arrived on the scene soon after receiving information about the incident. However, they, too, became targets of stone pelting. The unexpected attack forced the police to retreat briefly, resulting in injuries to four officers who are now receiving medical attention.
Given the gravity of the situation, the police have increased their presence in the area and are conducting routine patrols. The Sambalpur Sadar SDPO confirmed that the altercation started over a minor issue between the two groups, which resulted in one group attacking a youth from Pardeshi Pada with a knife. Despite the injury, the young person is now in stable condition. The SDPO assured that the situation was under control, but emphasized the importance of ongoing vigilance.
Previous Tensions in the Area
This is not the first time tensions have risen in Khetrajpur. The area’s police in charge (IIC) has faced numerous allegations of misconduct and incompetence, which have reportedly contributed to the recurring law-and-order problems. Previously, two groups clashed in a major incident in Mungapada. People widely criticized the Khetrajpur IIC for ineffectiveness during this event. Despite receiving complaints, authorities have not transferred the IIC, unlike their handling of other officers in similar situations. The local community continues to express concern about the region’s ongoing law enforcement issues.
