A tense situation unfolded during an anti-liquor meeting in Odisha’s Jajpur district on Wednesday, after a youth allegedly brandished an axe and threatened villagers attending the gathering. The incident took place in Malikapur panchayat under Mangalpur police limits, where residents had gathered to protest against the growing liquor-related issues in the area.

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According to sources, the villagers were holding a meeting to oppose the functioning and renewal of a government-authorised liquor shop in the locality. During the gathering, a local youth reportedly arrived carrying an axe, attempting to intimidate those present. A video of the incident has since gone viral on social media, causing panic and prompting strong reactions from the local community.

Villagers alleged that the illegal liquor trade has been rising rapidly in the region due to the presence of the government-licensed outlet, which they claimed has led to disturbances and adversely affected the social environment of the village. In response, they have submitted written complaints to the District Collector and Excise Department officials, urging them not to renew the liquor shop’s license.

Following the incident, police have initiated an investigation, and villagers are demanding stringent action against the youth accused of threatening participants with the axe.

Meanwhile, Jajpur SDPO Prasanta Majhi stated that the matter is being thoroughly investigated and that appropriate legal action will be taken against anyone found guilty. The viral video has further intensified public concern regarding law and order during social protest gatherings in the district.

“A youth was allegedly roaming around holding an axe and abusing different people in slang language. Police received information about this after the meeting and went to the spot. Although no one was present at the spot when the police team arrived. However, we are working to establish the name, address, and identity of the youth. If such an incident is found to have occurred, appropriate legal action will be taken against him,” the SDPO, Prasanta Majhi, said.