Man, son, grandson killed; heads smashed as two groups clash in Andhra Pradesh

Three people were killed amid Diwali celebrations in Andhra Pradesh after clashes broke out in Kakinada district on Thursday. The victims belonged to the same family and authorities suspect a long-standing family feud sparked the row.
“We are investigating the incident from all angles, and preliminary evidence suggests a long-standing feud between the families. We will arrest the accused soon,” NDTV quoted a senior police official as saying.
The victims were identified as Bathula Ramesh, his son Bathula Chinni and his grandson Bathula Raju. According to reports they were found lying dead in a pool of blood with their heads smashed while their hands gripped sickles.
The incident reportedly took place around 9:00 pm on Thursday — fuelled by old rivalries and derogatory comments that were purportedly made by the victims towards the accused families. Some reports suggest than an extramarital affair had been the motive behind the clash.
At least one other person was admitted to the Kakinada government general hospital with injuries. Later reports suggest that the injured individual is now out of danger.
A case has been registered with the Gollapalem police and investigation remains underway. A police picket was also reportedly posted and officials continue to camp in the area to ensure that the situation remains peaceful.
In another unrelated incident from the southern state, a man was killed man died after the firecrackers he was carrying on a two-wheeler exploded in Eluru town on Thursday. The incident occurred when two persons were transporting a bag of firecrackers bought for Diwali celebrations.
The bag containing “onion bombs” and other crackers exploded after falling on the road, resulting in the death of the rider on the spot. The pillion rider and two others standing on the roadside suffered injuries and were admitted to a hospital.
 
(With inputs from agencies)