Odisha:Group Clash After Cricket Match, Two Injured

Dhenkanal: A violent group clash broke out in Bedapada village, Hindol area of Dhenkanal district, following the final match of the 14th All India Subash Memorial Cricket Tournament-2025 on Sunday. The incident left two youths injured and caused widespread tension in the locality.

According to sources, the match drew a crowd of over 20,000 at the Bedapada Mini Stadium. However, a dispute erupted when members of the lower caste attempted to enter the stadium but were reportedly stopped by members of the higher caste. Although organizers managed to diffuse the situation temporarily, tensions flared again after the match.

After the prize distribution, members of the lower caste questioned the higher caste about their earlier exclusion, sparking a heated argument. The situation escalated when youths from the higher caste allegedly attacked two individuals from the lower caste, injuring them.

The violence spiraled into a full-blown clash, with both groups vandalizing each other’s homes and shops. The injured individuals were rushed to Dhenkanal District Headquarters Hospital, and one of them, identified as Rakesh Pradida, was later transferred to SCB Medical College and Hospital in Cuttack due to critical injuries.

Police from the Rasol station arrived at the scene and detained several individuals from both groups for questioning. To maintain law and order, three platoons of police forces have been deployed in the area.

Fear of further violence has prompted several villagers to flee, while the local administration and police are working to restore peace and normalcy in Bedapada. Investigations are ongoing, and security remains tight in the area.