The situation in violence-hit Sambalpur is gradually limping back to normalcy with no untoward incidents being reported further.
As per reports, the situation has improved considerably and people are coming out of their houses to buy essential commodities from the market.
For the first time curfew was relaxed for eleven hours from 7 am to 6 pm on Wednesday. As per Sambalpur SP B Gangadhar, the curfew will be relaxed further in the next one or two days as the situation has improved.
A total of 85 persons have been arrested so far in connection with the stone pelting incident during a motorbike rally on April 12 and violence and arson during the Hanuman Jayanti procession on April 14. Sambalpur police is trying to arrest some more people who are on the run in connection with the violence.
“The normalcy has been restored completely. People are roaming outside confidently and purchasing essential commodities from the market. Everybody wants normalcy and both communities are confident of the same. There's nothing to worry about,” said Sambalpur SP B Gangadhar.
“For the first time, we have given 11-hour relaxation in curfew. It will be relaxed further in a day or two. We want normal life to be resumed as soon as possible,” he added.
Updating about the situation, Sambalpur Collector Ananya Das said, “We held a meeting with various stakeholders and our team also talked to people from all backgrounds to understand the situation. Everything is returning to normal. Everyone wants peace.”
“We will take strict action against those found misusing the relaxation in restrictions and spreading rumours. In fact, we have launched a helpline, the toll-free number is 18003456723. Anyone who sees something unusual and wants to report can contact us by dialling this number,” she added.
“A quick response team is also tagged which will soon reach the spot,” she added.