10 hurt as groups clash over Posco

The Statesman, 26 November

JAGATSINGHPUR Nov. 25- Anti and pro-Posco groups clashed at Noliasahi today injuring at least 10 persons. The violent clash is said to be a sequel to the abduction of seven persons recently during which a local priest was assaulted by anti-Posco activists.The attack on the priest, on 22 November, when he had accompanied the seven officials of a dredging company to perform puja had enraged Nuagaon villagers. This led to today's violence.The anti-Posco group had decided to hold a meeting at Balithutha today and were mobilising support when angry villagers of Nuagaon pelted stones.

Both sides fought a pitched battle chasing and pelting stones at each other. At least 10 persons were injured.

Anti Posco leader Mr Nimai Sahoo said four persons were injured including Duryadhan Nayak, Narsingh Mallick, Prafulla Biswal and Champabati Nayak while the pro-Posco group said six from their side were hurt.

Two persons Narsingh Mallick and Prafulla Biswal have been shifted to SCB medical college and hospital, Cuttack for treatment.

IIC of Kujang police station Mr Anil Mishra said no FIR has been lodged in police station as yet.In fact the police failed to enter the village as anti Posco activists blocked the road at Balitutha bridge.

It may be noted here that Kujang police had registered a case against anti-Posco group and their leader Mr Abhaya Sahoo in connection with the 22 November incident.