Ganjam, Oct. 5 (UDN): A truck driver and two members of his family were injured following an alleged attack linked to a long-standing dispute near Tahan panchayat under Hinjili police limits in Odisha’s Ganjam district on Sunday.
The injured driver was identified as Brundaban Mehena. His mother and sister also sustained injuries in the incident and were subsequently taken to a hospital for treatment.
Driver Tries to Flee After Alleged Assault
According to reports, Brundaban had visited the area to meet his mother when he was allegedly attacked by a group of youths near a local shop.
Fearing further assault, he reportedly rushed towards his truck and attempted to leave the spot.
During the escape, the truck allegedly collided with a motorcycle near the panchayat office. Both vehicles reportedly caught fire following the collision.
Family Alleges Five-Year-Old Dispute
Brundaban’s brother, Kanhu Mehena, alleged that the incident stemmed from a dispute that had continued for around five years.
He claimed that his brother had been repeatedly targeted by the group and that the attackers allegedly placed a motorcycle in front of the truck, resulting in the collision and subsequent fire.
Kanhu further alleged that Brundaban was assaulted again when he attempted to contact the fire services.
The allegations are yet to be independently verified.
Police, Fire Services Reach Spot
Following the incident, personnel from Hinjili police and the fire services reached the location and brought the blaze under control.
The injured family members were shifted to a hospital, while police began investigating the circumstances surrounding the alleged assault, the vehicle collision and the subsequent fire.
Further details, including the identities of those allegedly involved and the exact cause of the confrontation, are awaited.