Bhubaneswar, Sept 21: Tension gripped the Ghatikia area of the capital city during the festive season after a clash between two groups reportedly led to two rounds of blank firing. Five people were seriously injured in the ensuing assault and have been admitted to a nearby private hospital for treatment.

According to preliminary information, the incident was triggered by a Facebook Live video in which a youth allegedly made caste-related remarks while discussing a case. The video subsequently went viral, reportedly angering members of the other group.

Later in the night, a group of people allegedly arrived in Ghatikia and confronted the youth over the video. At the time, Ganesh idol immersion celebrations were underway in the area, with a large number of young people gathered near a local pandal.

An argument between the two sides soon escalated into a physical altercation. According to reports, some of those who had arrived from outside allegedly opened fire twice in the air and attacked several youths with weapons, leaving five people seriously injured.

The injured were rescued and rushed to a nearby private hospital, where they are currently undergoing treatment.

Police have launched an investigation into the incident. CCTV footage from the area is being examined to identify those involved and establish the sequence of events. Further details are awaited.