Bhubaneswar, Jan 16 (IANS) Tension erupted on Thursday in Sundargarh district of Odisha after rumours reportedly emerged over the alleged sale of beef at a meat shop in Regent Market under the Sundargarh Town Police limits.

As per local sources, following the spread of rumours, some local youths reached the spot and raised objections against the alleged sale of beef, leading to a tense situation in the area. The local police immediately reached the spot and tried to pacify both groups.

However, between around 3 pm and 3.30 pm, the situation worsened as a large number of people from both groups gathered at the market. They engaged in heated arguments, which soon turned violent, leading to heavy stone-pelting by both sides.

During the clash, several vehicles, including an e-car, scooters and a pickup van, were damaged, and some shops were vandalised and set on fire. The police present at the spot appeared helpless amid the sudden eruption of violence. Sources also claimed that several persons, including one police personnel and members of both communities, sustained serious injuries in the clash.

The Sundargarh police swung into action and deployed 10 platoons of police force to bring the situation under control. Heavy police deployment has been made at Regent Market and other sensitive locations across the town, including the bus stand and market areas.

Speaking to media persons, DIG Western Range Brijesh Ray said, “There were allegations regarding sale of some meat at Regent Market. Upon informed, the additional Superintendent of Police and Subdivisional Police officer (SDPO) reached the spot and tried to placate both groups. When both groups were talking to each other, suddenly stone pelting started. Police took prompt action and bring the situation under control. Section 163 of the BNSS Act has been imposed in the area prohibiting gathering of people at the spot.”

Meanwhile, the Odisha Home Department temporarily suspended internet services in Sundargarh district from 6 pm on January 15 till 6 pm on January 16 to prevent the use of messaging platforms like WhatsApp, Facebook, X and other such media by anti-social elements to spread provocative and inflammatory messages.

The Sundargarh district collector also announced the closure of schools and colleges in the district on Friday in view of the prevailing tension. “In view of the prevailing law & order situation in Sundargarh Municipality Area, all schools & colleges functioning within the Sundargarh Municipality Area are hereby closed on dt.16.01.2026,” the order read.

–IANS

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