Violence Erupts in Sundargarh Over Beef Storage Rumours
Rumours about stored beef sparked serious violence in Sundargarh town, Odisha on Thursday. These rumours triggered intense clashes between two communities, leaving at least twelve people injured. The district administration responded by suspending internet services for twenty-four hours to control the situation.
Market Area Confrontation Escalates Quickly
According to official reports, a rumour spread that members of one community had stored beef. This rumour created immediate tension and unrest. The situation escalated within minutes into a direct confrontation in a busy market area.
Both groups allegedly used sharp weapons against each other. They also pelted stones during the violent clash. Police officers used mild force to disperse the crowds and bring the area under control.
Property Damage and Further Escalation
Tensions increased further after unidentified individuals vandalised a meat shop and several vehicles. A van was set on fire during the disturbances. These acts of property destruction added to the volatile atmosphere in the town.
Prohibitory orders are now in effect across Sundargarh. Police authorities confirm the situation is currently under control. Among the injured are some police personnel who sustained wounds during the clashes.
Administrative Response and Measures
Sundargarh district collector Subhankar Mohapatra appealed directly for public calm. The administration plans to convene a peace committee meeting soon. This meeting will include members from various communities to address the underlying tensions.
Authorities have deployed ten police platoons, totaling approximately three hundred personnel. They imposed prohibitory orders under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita. One injured police officer required hospital admission for treatment.
Impact on Daily Life in Sundargarh
All schools in Sundargarh will remain closed on Friday as a precautionary measure. Apart from medical stores and emergency services, all shops and commercial establishments in the town will stay shut. Sub-collector Tejaswini Behera confirmed these temporary closures.
Speaking about the incident, SDPO Nirmal Mohapatra described it as a group clash. He stated that no arrests have been made so far. The police maintain that the situation is now under control following their intervention.
