Sundargarh, Jan 15: Tension gripped Sundargarh town on Thursday after a violent clash broke out between two groups over alleged beef sale in the Regent Market area.

The situation escalated quickly, with stone-pelting, arson, and vandalism reported. Several shops were set ablaze, cars damaged, and a pickup van torched during the unrest.

In response, the district administration ordered a 24-hour suspension of internet services in Sundargarh town, effective from Thursday evening 6 PM until Friday evening 6 PM, to prevent the spread of misinformation and further escalation.

Also read: Washington Sundar Out of NZ T20Is, Doubtful for T20 World Cup

To maintain law and order, 10 platoons of police forces have been deployed across sensitive areas.

The clash left at least 12 people injured, including four police personnel. The violence spread from Regent Market to the Daily Market, prompting authorities to impose Section 163 in the town.

Police used loudspeakers to instruct shopkeepers to shut down markets, and several poultry and mutton shops were vandalized.

Senior officials, including Western Range DIG Brijesh Kumar Ray, Sundargarh SP, and other police officers, reached the spot to monitor the situation. DIG Ray assured that police action has brought the situation under control. Meanwhile, the Sub-Collector and Additional District Magistrate held discussions with representatives of both groups to restore peace.

Authorities are investigating the source of the alleged beef sale that triggered the unrest. It remains unclear whether the incident was genuine or deliberately staged to incite violence. Police continue to maintain strict vigil to ensure peace and prevent further clashes.

While calm is gradually returning, the incident has left behind damaged property, injured civilians, and heightened communal tension in Sundargarh.