Bhubaneswar, February 21: A major altercation erupted at the Works Department office in Bolangir on Saturday, as local contractors and department staff clashed over pending bills and contract allocations.

The tension began when contractors accused the department of favoring outside bidders, sidelining eligible local contractors. The dispute escalated into a heated verbal confrontation, causing chaos in the office. Eyewitnesses reported a loud exchange, sparking panic in the area.

Both sides filed complaints at the Town Police Station, and an inquiry is expected. A contractor's union spokesperson claimed that despite their objection to outside contractors, large contracts were being awarded to non-local firms. Allegations also included the splitting of contracts and the creation of false bills.