A violent altercation erupted between two theatre groups during a performance of the epic 'Mahabharat' in Odisha's Ganjam district, leaving around a dozen people injured, including two police personnel, authorities confirmed on Thursday.
Incident Details
The clash occurred late Wednesday night at Markandi under the Golanthara police station limits. Members of two theatre troupes from Ramapalli and Gobindapur villages engaged in a fierce confrontation, according to news agency PTI. Both groups had been invited by local villagers to stage the play as part of the concluding celebrations of the Thakurani Yatra.
Escalation of Violence
According to a police officer, an argument broke out between members of the theatre committees, which quickly escalated into a clash. The groups began hurling bricks and stones at each other. The situation worsened when police personnel deployed for festival duty intervened to restore order. The groups allegedly attacked the police with stones and crude bombs, officials said. They also used crude bombs with the intention to harm police personnel, the officer added.
Arrests and Seizures
Police have arrested 10 individuals from both groups in connection with the incident. Officials seized remnants of crude bombs, along with stones, bricks, bamboo sticks, and other materials used during the clash from the spot.
Current Situation
Berhampur SP Saravana Vivek M stated that the situation is now under control. Patrolling has been intensified and strict vigil is being maintained, he said.
The injured have been admitted to a local hospital for treatment. Further investigations are underway to ascertain the exact cause of the dispute and to identify any other individuals involved in the violence.
