India, Jan. 10 -- Tension escalated in parts of Fatikroy in Tripura's Unakoti district after violent clashes allegedly broke out over the collection of donations for the upcoming Bhairab Mela, sources said.

The violence erupted in the Saidarpara-Shimultala area under Fatikroy police station. Miscreants allegedly went on a rampage and set private properties on fire.

Officials said the trouble began on Kanchanbari Main Road near the Bhairab Mela site. A heated argument reportedly broke out between members of the mela committee and a timber-laden vehicle owner, identified as Mosabbir Ali, over donation collection for the fair scheduled from January 24 to 26. The argument soon turned violent and led to clashes between two groups.

Eyewitnes...