Clashes erupt during Gangamma festival in Eluru, one severely injured

HYDERABAD: Tensions flared in Eluru during the Gangamma festival, leading to violent clashes between two groups.

The incident occurred in the Chodadubba area of the Eluru district on Sunday night, where participants wielding knives and sticks turned the celebrations into a scene of chaos. The confrontation is believed to be rooted in past disputes between the groups.

In the altercation, Gangadhar, a resident of MRC Colony, Arundhati Peta, sustained severe injuries, and his condition is reported to be critical. The clashes have left the local community shaken, especially after videos of the violent incident began circulating widely on social media.

The police from Eluru's Two Town limits are investigating the incident, which occurred during the late-night hours of the festival. Officials are urging residents to remain calm and are working to prevent further escalations. The viral video has drawn significant attention to the incident, prompting calls for stricter measures to maintain peace during local celebrations.