Bhubaneswar, Jul 7: The capital city of Odisha is witnessing a disturbing surge in violent clashes, with over 25 blood-soaked incidents reported in the past six weeks. From petty disputes to turf wars, Bhubaneswar’s streets have increasingly turned into battlegrounds, raising concerns about public safety and police effectiveness.

Late Monday night, Old Town once again echoed with the sound of weapons as miscreants attacked a shopkeeper, Uday Kiran, allegedly with a sharp weapon wielded by a local youth named Ramulu. The incident adds to a growing list of violent incidents that have unsettled residents in the State Capital.

Police records show a pattern of gang-related violence:

• On July 4, a clash over a love affair at Buddha Vihar led to ten arrests.
• On July 5, two men were arrested at CRP Square for misbehaving with a woman traffic police officer and threatening her with a sword.
• On June 6, a financial dispute at Mula Padia escalated into a murderous attack involving minors.
• On June 23, a street vendor at Unit-3 was brutally assaulted, with weapons seized.
• On June 13, a man was attacked in his home over a loan of just Rs250.

Residents say the city is turning into a hub of “bhaigiri” culture, where gangs flaunt weapons like swords and knives to assert dominance. Many of the accused are repeat offenders who return to crime soon after being released from jail.

Also Read: Soumya Swain Mob Lynching Case: Close Friend's Lie Test Raises IPS Link Suspicions

Legal experts have urged stricter enforcement under the new Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), particularly Section 129, to curb the menace. Citizens, meanwhile, are demanding tighter surveillance on habitual offenders and stronger police presence in vulnerable areas.

Despite police patrols, the rising frequency of violent clashes has eroded public trust. The question now being asked is whether Bhubaneswar is sliding into becoming a breeding ground for organised crime.