BERHAMPUR, ODISHA – An inter-college medical meet at MKCG Medical College, Berhampur, was abruptly cancelled following a violent clash between students from the host institution and SCB Medical College. The brawl left several students injured, prompting Odisha Police to advise the cancellation to prevent further law and order issues.
The decision to halt the week-long event, which began on October 11 and was scheduled to conclude on October 18 , came after a serious altercation. Stones were reportedly thrown near Hostel Number 3 on the MKCG campus. Multiple students suffered injuries. They required immediate medical attention at the college’s on-campus facility.
Inter-College Meet Halted
MKCG Dean Suchitra Dash confirmed the cancellation of all non-educational programmes. This included the college fest, a key component of the annual inter-college gathering. The college administration acted swiftly to de-escalate tensions and restore order. Dean Dash specifically cited “the disturbance being created by students” as the reason for the decision.
The cancellation decision was formalized during a college council meeting. Representatives from all 18 participating medical colleges were reportedly present. The event brought together hundreds of students from across Odisha for a series of cultural, academic, and sports competitions.
Police Advisory and Investigation Underway
Odisha Police formally advised the MKCG Medical College administration to stop the programme. This advisory directly followed a written complaint filed by students from SCB Medical College. Their complaint alleged a “murderous assault” took place during the clash.
Police have registered a formal case. An active investigation is currently underway. The SCB students’ complaint specifically implicated leaders of the MKCG Medical College student union, including its president and general secretary, as being responsible for the incident.
In a detailed letter addressed to the dean and principal of MKCG Medical College, Odisha Police described the prevailing environment as “volatile in nature.” The advisory warned that “unrest can’t be ruled out on slightest provocation and disturbances.” Consequently, police explicitly “advised to stop the scheduled programme of all Odisha Inter Medical College fest to avoid any Law and order situation.”
Student Protests Erupt
The premature ending of the ‘All Odisha Inter Medical College fest’ has sparked significant discontent among the student body. Students are now reportedly protesting against the dean’s decision. The annual event is a highly anticipated occasion, fostering camaraderie and competition among future medical professionals.
The fest was intended to run for eight days. Its abrupt cancellation has disrupted the schedules and plans of numerous participants. Students express widespread disappointment over the loss of this important platform for interaction and skill showcasing.
Unclear Motive, Old Rivalry Cited
The precise trigger for the violent confrontation remains officially unconfirmed by authorities. However, some college officials familiar with the incident have cited “old rivalry” among students from the two institutions as a potential underlying cause. Such tensions have been noted in past inter-college gatherings and can escalate quickly.
The ongoing police investigation is crucial for determining the full sequence of events. It aims to identify all individuals involved in the altercation and establish accountability. The incident underscores concerns regarding campus safety and conflict management during large student assemblies. Authorities are expected to review security protocols for future events.