Balasore. The Odisha government suspended internet services in the city for 48 hours and extended the curfew indefinitely after clashes between two groups in Balasore city.
10 people were injured in the clashes on Monday. Balasore Superintendent of Police (SP) Sagarika Nath urged residents to remain indoors during the curfew period. She stressed that seven FIRs have been registered and 34 people have been detained on charges related to the riots since Monday.
More than 40 platoons of police have been deployed to maintain law and order, especially in those areas where the administration fears clashes. The SP said that all six routes to and from the city have been closed. A flag march was also conducted in sensitive areas of the city. He said that those travelling for exams or medical emergencies will be exempted, provided they show the necessary documents.
The SP has not given detailed information about the loss of property and destruction of vehicles during the violence. However, officials said that Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi has already intervened and directed the Balasore Collector to take immediate steps to restore peace. Officials said that Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi spoke to Balasore District Collector Ashish Thackeray on Monday and asked him to take immediate steps to bring the situation under control.
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On Monday, a group of people staged a sit-in protest against the bloodshed on the road due to cattle sacrifice in the city’s Bhujakhiya Pir area. The clashes started after another group allegedly pelted stones at them, police said. Additional Director General of Police (Law and Order) Sanjay Kumar is camping in Balasore.
According to an official, a decision has been taken to suspend the internet for 48 hours to prevent the spread of provocative messages that increase communal tension. The administration has ordered the closure of schools, colleges and markets. Along with this, common people have been instructed to stay indoors. Deputy Chief Minister KV Singh Deo said, ‘The Chief Secretary and DGP are monitoring the situation in Balasore and are informing the Chief Minister about the matter. We appeal to everyone to maintain peace.’
Balasore MLA Manas Dutta has appealed to people not to believe rumours and fake posts on social media. He said, ‘Old pictures are being posted in the name of recent violence in Balasore. I appeal to people not to be influenced by such rumours. The government is taking all steps to restore peace.’ Balasore MP Pratap Sarangi also appealed to the people to maintain peace.
