Baleshwar: At least 20 individuals sustained injuries after violence broke out during a religious procession in the Dargah Maidan area of Odisha’s Baleshwar, creating tension in the city.

According to initial reports, the incident occurred late on Friday night when a verbal altercation between two individuals escalated into a group clash during the procession.

In response, police forces were quickly deployed to the area, effectively bringing the situation under control within a short period. Normalcy was reported to have returned by Saturday morning, according to sources.

Police teams remain stationed at the location as a precaution. Those who suffered minor injuries received first aid and were discharged, while several individuals with more serious injuries are currently receiving treatment at the Baleshwar District Headquarters Hospital (DHH).

Local residents indicated that a minor dispute between two Akhada groups rapidly escalated into a significant clash, with both sides throwing stones at each other, resulting in injuries to over 20 individuals from both factions.

An investigation is currently underway to determine the circumstances that led to the clash.