Bhubaneswar/Rourkela | Jan 16, 2026

Two individuals have been detained in connection with a group clash in Sundargarh town, Odisha, which left at least 12 people injured, including police personnel, a senior official said on Friday. The district administration has stepped up security measures, and educational institutions, markets, and public transport remained closed across the district this morning.

Authorities have imposed prohibitory orders under Section 144 and suspended internet services until 6 pm on Friday to prevent further disturbances.

“We have detained two persons for their alleged involvement in the clash, and raids are ongoing based on CCTV footage to apprehend more individuals connected to the violence. Nine additional platoons of armed forces have been deployed in Sundargarh town,” said DIG Western Range Brijesh Rai.

With the additional deployment, the total police presence in Sundargarh now stands at 19 platoons. Security agencies are also on heightened alert in nearby towns such as Rourkela and Rajgangpur. Rai added that no fresh incidents of violence have occurred since 5 pm on Thursday.

Sundargarh district collector Subhankar Mohapatra said that all schools, colleges, and other educational institutions in the municipality area remained closed as a precautionary measure. Shops and commercial establishments are also shut, except for medical stores, milk vans, and essential services.

The clash erupted on Thursday following an altercation between two groups over food items at Regent Market. Both groups reportedly resorted to stone-pelting and use of sharp weapons during the violence.

The administration has banned public gatherings, rallies, and protests in the town. Authorities are also coordinating with senior members of the two communities to hold a peace committee meeting, and the government has appealed to citizens to remain calm and avoid being influenced by rumours.

Sundargarh SP Amrit Pal Kaur confirmed that the situation is under control, with security personnel deployed in sensitive pockets of the town to reassure residents.

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