Cuttack, Aug 11: With Ganesh Puja just weeks away, Cuttack Police have announced strict action against forced collection of money during upcoming festivals. Whether from club members, Puja committees, or antisocial individuals, any coercion for donations will lead to arrest and court proceedings, police warned.
A dedicated helpline number will soon be issued for public complaints. Citizens can also report such incidents to local police stations or via emergency number 112.
The festive season in Cuttack begins on August 27 with Ganesh Puja, followed by Khudurukuni, Vishwakarma, Dussehra, Kali puja and Kartikeswar Pujas. Past years have seen multiple extortion complaints during festivals, prompting arrests of criminals and even committee members.
“We have zero tolerance for extortion or forced donations. Strict action will be taken,” said DCP Rishikesh Dnyandeo.
Police may also revive the 2020 "No to Extortion" campaign and its now-defunct helpline to curb such activities in both Cuttack and Bhubaneswar.
