Odisha announces 24x7 social media surveillance during festive season

With several major festivals approaching, the Odisha police on Friday announced round-the-clock surveillance of social media platforms to ensure peace and maintain law and order in the state. The decision was communicated by the Director General of Police (DGP) following a high-level review meeting at the State Police Headquarters.

Stressing that the safety and security of citizens remain the government’s top priority, the DGP directed all district Superintendents of Police (SPs) to remain on high alert during the festive period. Authorities have been instructed to ensure that celebrations are conducted in a disciplined and peaceful atmosphere across the state.

No Provocative Content On Social Media

A key focus of the strategy is to prevent the spread of rumours, misleading information, and provocative content on social media that could potentially disturb communal harmony. The Cyber Cell has been tasked with 24-hour monitoring and patrolling of various social media platforms to quickly identify and act against objectionable or inflammatory posts.

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In addition to online vigilance, SPs have been directed to strengthen ground-level security measures. These include the installation of CCTV cameras at sensitive locations, enhanced intelligence gathering, and the formation of local peace committees to promote coordination between communities.

Avoid Sharing Unverified Info

Police officials have also been instructed to initiate preventive action against habitual offenders to avert any untoward incidents. The enhanced security measures come ahead of upcoming festivals such as Dola Yatra, Holi, Eid-ul-Fitr, Sri Ram Navami, and Hanuman Jayanti, which typically see large public gatherings across the state.

Authorities have urged citizens to celebrate responsibly and avoid sharing unverified information on social media.