Violence erupts in Nandigram, rival parties open fire

Midnapore, Apr 6 (UNI) Tension ran high again in Nandigram today when a large number of CPI(M) supporters and Bhumi Ucchched Pratirodh Committee activists clashed at Khejuri on the outskirts of the troubled place, and started firing at each other.

There was, however, no report of any casualty, police said.

The incident occurred when about 500 CPI(M) supporters from Baharganj and Ranichak gathered at Khejuri and started firing in a bid to ''recapture'' some areas of Nandigram.

Meanwhile, about 1000 activists of Bhumi Ucchched Pratirodh Committee, carrying lethal weapons, also assembled there and returned fire at the CPI(M) supporters.

A huge contingent of police rushed to the spot. Nobody was arrested so far, police added.

Fourteen people were killed and 71 injured in Nandigram on March 14 when police opened fire to disperse a mob, allegedly occupying the area.

A chemical hub was to be constructed at Nandigram after land acquisition by the state government which later reversed the proposal and decided to set it up at Haldia.

UNI