A 28-year-old man was arrested for allegedly vandalising a temple and attacking devotees with a ‘trishul’ in Haladipatana village of Odisha’s Kendrapara district on Monday, police said.

The accused, identified as Khetrabasi Mallick, reportedly entered the temple in an inebriated state and began vandalising the premises. He then seized the ‘trishul’ from the sanctum sanctorum and attacked devotees who were present at the temple, police added.

Three people sustained minor injuries in the attack and were treated at a nearby health facility.

The incident has sparked tension in the village, with locals demanding strict action against the accused. Police have detained Mallick and are investigating the matter further.

Authorities have assured the public of heightened security measures to prevent such incidents and urged people to maintain peace and harmony.