Bhubaneswar, January 16: Prohibitory orders imposed under Section 163 of the BNS Act have been lifted in Sundargarh town following the restoration of normalcy. The town had experienced a violent clash between two groups two days ago, prompting authorities to implement restrictions for public safety.

To maintain peace, the district administration had enforced a 24-hour suspension of internet services and temporarily closed schools and colleges on Friday.

The tensions erupted after an altercation near Regent Market, with increased police presence and senior officials overseeing the situation. Sundargarh Collector Subhankar Mohapatra confirmed that the suspension of internet and social media services was aimed at preventing the spread of misinformation. A peace committee will be established to facilitate discussions on future actions.

Western Range DIG Brijesh Rai revealed that the dispute began over a suspicious food item at a private residence, escalating into stone-pelting between the two groups. The situation was swiftly controlled by the police, though one officer and several civilians sustained minor injuries.