RAJ KUMAR
Ranchi, April 8: An unidentified miscreant injured two youths by opening fire at Manda Puja place in Itki.
The incident took place around 4am when the dance was being performed as part of rituals and devotees were observing the same. The miscreant escaped from the spot after opening fire.
Those injured were identified as Ravi Nayak and his friend. Both were admitted to Rajendra Institute of Medical Sciences (RIMS).
Officer-in-charge of Itki police station Rajni Ranjan confirmed the incident saying attempts are being made to identify the person who opened the fire. “Once the culprit is identified, the police will attempt to arrest him,” he said.
Asked about the condition of the injured, Ranjan said: “Both took bullets on their feet and were stable during the treatment.”
Manda Puja is performed in Jharkhand to please Lord Shiva. As part of the ritual, devotees walk on fire. It is considered that those who perform this puja lead a happy and peaceful life and get success with happiness.