Two killed in Sheikhpura clash over trivial issue

Biharsharif: Two people were killed in a violent clash between two rival groups at Akauna village under Sarari police station area of Sheikhpura district on Friday night, police said.

The deceased were identified as Puna Yadav alias Parmeshwar (65) and Premranjan alias Santosh Yadav (35).

They were cousins and residents of the same village.Superintendent of police (SP) Baliram Chaudhary said the incident was triggered by a trivial dispute over the use of a thresher. “Two groups of villagers got into a heated argument, which escalated into a violent clash. Supporters of Rajesh Yadav and Premranjan alias Santosh Yadav were involved,” he said.The situation turned fatal when members of both groups allegedly pulled out country-made firearms and opened fire at each other. Puna Yadav, who suffered a gunshot wound to the head, died on the spot. Premranjan sustained critical bullet injuries and was referred to Bhagwan Mahavir Institute of Medical Sciences (BMIMS), Pawapuri, after initial treatment at Sheikhpura sadar hospital, where he succumbed during treatment, the SP said.

Police said Rajesh Yadav, Amrit Yadav and Kailash Yadav are among five people detained for questioning. Police forces have been deployed in the village to prevent further escalation. An FIR was yet to be registered till Saturday afternoon, the police official said.Meanwhile, Sanjeet Kumar, son of Puna Yadav, alleged that the dispute began with an argument between Rajesh Yadav and Premranjan over the use of the thresher. “My father went there to pacify them, but Premranjan suddenly pulled out a gun and shot him dead,” he alleged, claiming that Amrit Yadav and Raju Yadav instigated the attack.Police said further investigation is underway.