Balasore, Oct. 5 (UDN): Tension prevailed along the Odisha-West Bengal border in Balasore district after a clash over alleged illegal sand transportation left two persons injured on Sunday.
The incident took place in the Sahabajipur area under the Talasari Marine Police Station limits in Bhograi block, following an attempt by local residents and political workers to stop trucks allegedly carrying illegally mined sand towards West Bengal.
Two Injured in Attack
According to reports, BJP youth leader Dilip Kamila and another person sustained serious injuries during the confrontation. They were initially taken to the Jaleswarpur Community Health Centre (CHC) in a 108 ambulance.
As their condition was reportedly serious, both were later shifted to the District Headquarters Hospital for further treatment.
Locals Raise Questions Over Sand Transport
Residents alleged that large numbers of heavy vehicles, including hyvas loaded with sand, have been regularly crossing the border towards West Bengal.
They questioned how such vehicles could allegedly operate despite the presence of a police camp near the Sahabajipur border. Locals also demanded stronger action from the police and concerned authorities to curb suspected illegal mining and transportation.
According to residents, frustration over the alleged lack of effective action prompted local youth and political workers to intervene and attempt to stop the vehicles, leading to the confrontation.
Police Step Up Vigil
Following the clash, Jaleswar SDPO reached the area and began an inquiry into the incident.
The police have assured local residents that 24-hour patrolling will be deployed along the border to prevent further disturbances and check illegal sand transportation.
The incident has intensified demands for a coordinated crackdown on alleged sand smuggling and for action against those involved in the violence.
With tension still reported in the area, residents are seeking sustained enforcement rather than temporary measures to prevent the border region from becoming a hotspot for illegal mineral transportation and related clashes.