A violent group clash erupted on Friday at Chintamaniswar Talasahi under Laxmisagar police limits in Bhubaneswar, leaving two youths critically injured. According to police sources, around 15 attackers allegedly assaulted the victims using sharp weapons following an altercation linked to a New Year feast.

The injured youths sustained serious injuries to their heads, hands, and legs and were immediately rushed to Capital Hospital, where their condition remains critical. Preliminary findings suggest the clash may have been fuelled by previous enmity between two local groups, which escalated into violence.

Police suspect the immediate trigger for the attack was a dispute related to arrangements for a New Year celebration. Following the incident, Laxmisagar police rushed to the spot, launched an investigation, and intensified security in the area to prevent further unrest.

The injured have been identified as Badal and Rudra, residents of Lane 11 in the Chintamaniswar area. Some of the accused have been identified as Gopi Rout, Shitu, Raja, and Bula, all from the same locality. Efforts are underway to locate and apprehend all those involved in the attack.

Police are continuing to question local residents to establish the exact sequence of events. No official statement had been issued by the police at the time of reporting.