Bhadrak communal tension: Internet services suspended; security tightened, 9 persons detained

The Bhadrak administration on Saturday imposed a complete shutdown on internet services for 48 hours in view of the communal tension in the district triggered by an ‘objectionable’ social media post on Friday.

“Messaging platforms like WhatsApp, Facebook, X and other such media have the potential to inflame communal tension thereby leading to acts causing disturbance of public order in Bhadrak district. Therefore, in order to prevent the spread of such inflammatory and motivated messages to circulate in the above mentioned media to disturb the public order in whole Bhadrak district and restore peace and amity, I Shri Satyabrata Sahu, IAS, Additional Chief Secretary to Govt, Home Department do hereby extend prohibition of the use and access of social media platforms like WhatsApp, Facebook, X and any other through internet and other medium of data services,” read the official letter.

Reportedly, police have detained nine persons in connection with the incident. Any congregation, gathering, meeting and agitation are strictly prohibited under the proceeding area and any violation of the same will be viewed seriously.

Meanwhile, Section 163 under BNSS has been imposed in Dhamanagar NAC and other nearby areas. At least 10 platoons of police forces have been deployed in Puruna Bazar while another 4 platoons of police have been deployed in Dhamnagar NAC and Dobal village, it was learnt.

Speaking to the media, DIG (Eastern Range) Satyajit Nayak informed, “It is very unfortunate that such an incident occurred due to a social media post. Both the police and district administration is in full alert mode. 10 platoon force is doing flag march in the riot-affected areas.” 

“No one will be spared. Strong action will be taken against the culprits. I will also appeal to the people here to not believe in rumours. We have already registered an FIR and a probe is on. The Cyber Crime Cell is working to find out who posted the objectionable post,” he further stated.

“Night patrolling will be there and flag marching is on. PCR and patrolling vans have been stationed in all major junctions. A peace committee is in talks with the religious leaders of both sides. I appeal to people of both the communities to maintain peace,” he added.

Also Read: Tension in Odisha’s Bhadrak over ‘controversial social media post’: 3 cops injured, BNSS Section 163 imposed

Meanwhile, as many as three senior police officials including Bhadrak Town SI, IIC and City DSP have been seriously injured in stone pelting. The vehicle of Bhadrak Tehsildar has also been damaged in the clashes.

As per reports, the clashes started following a post on Facebook and a group took out a rally and staged road blockade by burning tyres demanding immediate arrest of the person behind the post. However, when police tried to pacify them, the matter took an ugly turn and stones were pelted at the police.

In the process, three senior police officials sustained injuries. In reply, police resorted to a lathi charge to disperse the protestors.