Daringbadi: A violent clash between two picnicker groups broke out at Duluri pine forest in Daringbadi area of Kandhamal district Sunday, prompting the police to resort to lathi charge.
The incident occurred on the last Sunday of the year when nearly 3,000-4,000 people had gathered in the forest.
Several groups were picnicking at the popular pine forest when an argument broke out between two groups, reportedly from Berhampur and Bhubaneswar. The altercation soon escalated into a physical fight, with members of both groups attacking each other using sticks and utensils.
The situation created panic at the tourist spot, forcing some visitors to leave the area. Informed, Daringbadi police rushed to the spot and attempted to placate the groups.
Also Read: Man jailed for strangling wife
However, as the situation went out of control, the police carried out a lathi charge to disperse the crowd.
One person sustained injuries and was taken to Daringbadi hospital, where he was treated and later discharged. Police also detained five/six youths from both groups and brought them to the police station for interrogation.
