Khallikote: A man was killed and six others were rendered critical in a group clash at Pathara village under Khallikote block of Ganjam district Friday night.
The incident took place after two groups clashed in connection with liquor trade in the area.
According to a source, one group was attacked by another which was supported by local liquor mafias. Five young men sitting at a community centre at Majhi Sahi Chhak when they were attacked by some miscreants led by rival group’s Dhanu Palei and Tophan Palei – both from Odia Sahi.
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Injured youths including the deceased who was identified as Pintu Das (Pinku) were immediately rushed to MKCG Medical College and Hospital Berhampur, where Pintu succumbed to injuries. The injured youths are Ranjan Bhanga, Dhruba Tahala, Suman Subudhi and Sanjaya Subudhi, who were later shifted to different other hospitals.
Group clash triggered tension in the area and villagers of Khatia Sahi blocked village main road, demanding arrest of the accused persons. They also ransacked some roadside shops. Palpable tension prevails in the area. Police, meanwhile, detained two persons after registering a case.
Police suspect past enmity behind the incident. There had been tussles between the two groups over production of country made liquor and bootlegging.
PNN