Ten injured in clash between two rival clubs at Ekbalpore

At least 10 persons including a civic volunteer were injured when members of two clubs clashed and hurled soda water bottles, brickbats, bombs on Myurbhanj Road in Ekbalpore on Tuesday afternoon. 5 to six rounds of bullets were also fired in the violent exchange.

The police, however, said that there was no firing. Pickets have been posted in the area to maintain peace. An uneasy calm prevailed in the area after the incident and local people said that the situation could flare up at any moment.

Clashes between the members of Gajipur Society Club and Kadamtala Welfare Society club are quite common in the area. On Tuesday afternoon, members of both the clubs gathered on Mayurbhanj Road and began hurling brickbats at each other. The shop owners downed the shutters of their establishments while common people ran for shelters. The clash continued for over one hour. Bombs and soda water bottles were also thrown. Local people alleged that some of the club members chased each other brandishing revolvers and swords. They also said five to six rounds of bullets had also been fired.

On getting information, the Officers in Charge of Watgunj and South Port police station went to the spot to bring the situation under control. But the police force was soon overpowered. Later reinforcements arrived and chased away the clashing groups. Police pickets were posted and traffic movement along Mayurbhanj Road was suspended. 

Local people alleged that around seven months back, clashes between the members of the clubs took place. The clubs try to overpower each other to establish their control over the area. Local people said in the name of social service both the clubs are involved in land deal, extortion and gambling rackets.

The shop keepers are forced to give money to them on a regular basis. Even poor and small traders are not spared. When in trouble, the club members take shelter under political flags. Despite repeated complaints, the police have not taken any action against them, they alleged.