Sambalpur violence: Opposition holds Odisha govt, police responsible 

While palpable tension continues and a curfew is still in force in several parts of Sambalpur following an outbreak of large-scale violence, the Opposition BJP and Congress have held the BJD-led government and Odisha Police responsible for the situation in the western Odisha district.

Launching a broadside after the party's fact-finding team returned from violence-hit Sambalpur, BJP leader Biranchi Tripathi said, “Police used to provide security during Hanuman Jayanti, but why the same was not given this year? Why no action is being taken against a particular group for breaking the law?”

"Who is the invisible power? Under whose instructions, the police administration is silent," asked the saffron party leader while addressing a press conference.

Condemning the violence in Sambalpur, the Congress said the State government has failed miserably to handle the situation.

“Why the State government was not prepared for a situation like this? Why their assessment went drastically wrong? When the police are attacked, then it is the failure of the government,” said Bijay Patnaik, Congress leader. 

Reacting to the allegations leveled by the Opposition, the ruling BJD said the matter should not be politicized in the name of the religion.

“Necessary action will be taken against the miscreants involved in the violence and rumour mongers. The situation is under control because the police are there. Those who are trying to politicise the matter should be condemned,” BJD leader Debi Mishra said.

Earlier in the day, the Odisha Home Department extended the ban on internet services in Sambalpur where a curfew is currently in force in view of the violence and other incidents recently.