Bhubaneswar: Tension erupted in Balasore town during Muharram preparations when two groups clashed violently during a religious procession, leaving more than 20 people injured.
The incident occurred at Dargah Maidan area in Balasore district late Friday night when the procession was underway.
According to reports, a minor dispute between two Akhada groups suddenly escalated into a full-blown clash. Both sides pelted each other with stones and sticks, resulting in injuries to approximately 20 people from both groups.
The injured persons have been admitted to Balasore District Headquarters Hospital for treatment. Town Police promptly reached the spot, brought the situation under control, and deployed a heavy police force in the area to restore normalcy.
An investigation into the incident is underway to determine the exact cause of the clash.
