VALPOI
Three persons were injured after a clash broke out between two Romtamel troupes during the Shigmo festival in Valpoi in the early hours of Tuesday.
The incident occurred during the Romtamel competition when a dispute erupted between members of two prominent troupes. The argument, which reportedly stemmed from prior rivalry between the groups, took place near a school in Valpoi and escalated into a physical confrontation.
Three persons sustained injuries in the clash, one of them seriously, sources said.
Following the incident, police advised that the festival be temporarily halted to bring the situation under control. However, the organising committee opposed the move, after which police mediated between the two groups.
The situation was brought under control and the Shigmo celebrations continued without further incident. At the time of the clash, eight troupes had already performed, while three were yet to take the stage.
According to preliminary information, both groups have filed complaints against each other at the local police station, though no official statement was issued by authorities till the time of filing this report.
Meanwhile, some attendees raised concerns over inadequate police presence at the venue, saying that such large public events require stronger security arrangements.
Groups banned
Later, the Sattari Shigmo Committee imposed a ban on the two troupes involved in the clash. The committee said the decision was taken as the groups allegedly attempted to disrupt the peaceful atmosphere of the festival due to past rivalries, bringing disrepute to the event.
The committee added that the ban is a precautionary measure to prevent similar incidents in the future.
