clash in Balani mines; one killed, several injured

Keonjhar (Orissa), July 15 (UNI) The Keonjhar district authority today reimposed prohibitory orders under section 144 CrPc in the Balani mines area after one person was killed and several others injured during a clash between supporters of two political parties.

Barbil Police said the trouble started during the loading of iron ores at the railway sliding close to the Balani mines when the Congress and BJP workers engaged in a pitched battle for quite some time.

The police force rushed to the site to bring the situation under control. Sensing the tense situation prevailing in the area, the authority clamped the prohibitory orders and dispersed the two warring groups from the scene. The police arrested 18 people in connection with the violent incident.

The authority had earlier promulgated a prohibitory order under section 144 CrPc apprehending clash between the supporters of the two rival political parties. But the prohibitory order was lifted today and the police allowed the loading of iron ores at the railway sliding.

Superintendent of Police and Keonjhar district Sub collector and other officials have rushed to the spot and are camping there to monitor the law and order situation.

Police described the situation in the area as tense but under control.

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