September 28th 2024.
On a recent Saturday in Bhubaneswar/Bhadrak, a group of nine individuals were arrested for their involvement in a clash between two communities. This altercation, which also resulted in an attack on police personnel, was sparked by a controversial post made by a man on social media. The man responsible for the post was also apprehended by authorities, according to a senior officer.
As a result of the tension and violence, the government took the precautionary measure of suspending internet services in Bhadrak for two days. This decision was made after police officers were targeted with rocks during a protest on Friday regarding the offensive social media post. Anshuman Diwedi, a DSP in the area, shared that the man responsible for the post has been taken into custody. In addition, nine others have been apprehended on charges of rioting.
The DSP also assured that the situation is currently under control and necessary measures have been taken to maintain law and order. Prohibitory orders have been imposed in the Puruna Bazar and Dhamnagar Police Station areas under section 163 of BNSS. The state's home department released a notification stating that internet services in Bhadrak would remain suspended for 48 hours as a precautionary measure under the provisions of Section 5 of the Indian Telegraph Act, 1885. The government order also mentioned that access to social media platforms like WhatsApp, Facebook, X, and other mediums of data services, mobile internet, and broadband services would be prohibited in order to prevent the spread of inflammatory messages.
The incident began when a group of individuals filed a complaint against a youth who had posted objectionable material on social media, which they believed insulted their religious sentiments. This led to a protest rally on Friday, where the group expressed their frustration over the delay in police action against the accused. However, when the rally was stopped due to lack of permission from the administration, the situation turned violent as the protesting individuals began pelting stones at the police. Two officers, including the DSP, were injured and the vehicle of a Bhadrak Tehsildar was damaged.
The clash between the two communities initially took place in the Santhia area of the district but later spread to Dhamnagar. In response, the administration issued an order strictly prohibiting any gatherings, meetings, or agitations in the area. This violation would be taken very seriously. In order to maintain peace, 14 platoons of police force have been deployed in Puruna Bazaar and Dhamnagar. Patrols have also been intensified in the district.
High-ranking officials, including the DIG, Bhadrak SP, and district collector, have also been involved in discussions with members of the peace committee. The authorities are working diligently to restore harmony in the district and ensure the safety of all individuals.
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