Bargarh, Feb 6: In a shocking incident in Bargarh, two youths lost their lives and two others sustained critical injuries following a violent group clash. The incident occurred near the Sai temple in the Hatpada area, under the jurisdiction of the Bargarh Town Police Station.

The deceased have been identified as Debashish Luha from College Road and Suraj. Debashish died on the spot, while Suraj succumbed to his injuries in the hospital later.

Reports suggest that the violence erupted late last night after a verbal spat between two groups. The situation quickly escalated into a deadly confrontation, with the groups attacking each other with sharp weapons, including bhujalis (traditional sickles). During the clash, Debashish was killed instantly, and three others were grievously injured. Among the injured, one person suffered critical wounds, while the other two were injured by the bhujali attack.

The injured were initially admitted to the Bargarh Community Health Center, but as their conditions worsened, they were transferred to VIMSAR Hospital in Burla, Sambalpur district. Unfortunately, one of the three injured individuals succumbed to his injuries while undergoing treatment.

While the exact cause of the clash is still under investigation, sources suggest that the dispute may have been linked to the illegal drug trade, though this remains unconfirmed.

Following the incident, police from the Bargarh Town Police Station reached the scene and have launched an investigation. No arrests have been made so far, and authorities are continuing their probe into the matter.