Bhadrak, June 13: The district administration of Bhadrak has extended the suspension of internet services for another 12 hours, from 6 am to 6 pm today, in a bid to maintain law and order following escalating tensions in the region.
According to Bhadrak Superintendent of Police (SP) Manoj Rout, the affected areas include Bhadrak Municipality, Bhadrak Block, Dhamnagar Notified Area Council (NAC), Dhamnagar Block, and Tihidi Block. This comes after a 24-hour internet suspension was imposed from Tuesday morning, which ended at 6 am today.
The restrictions follow a recent incident involving the death of a local youth, Santosh Parida, who succumbed to his injuries at a private hospital in Bhubaneswar. Parida was reportedly attacked by cattle smugglers in the Tihidi police station area a few days ago.
In response to the incident, the Tihidi police registered a case based on a complaint lodged by Santosh's wife, Minati Behera. So far, 12 individuals, including two key suspects, have been arrested. Police efforts are underway to apprehend the remaining accused.
To prevent any untoward situation and maintain public peace, 27 platoons of police forces have been deployed in sensitive locations across the district. SP Manoj Rout is personally monitoring the situation to ensure calm prevails.
In a gesture of support, Odisha Chief Minister has announced a compensation of ₹10 lakh from the Chief Minister’s Relief Fund for the bereaved family. Furthermore, the government has assured that one family member will be provided with a job.
Authorities continue to assess the ground situation and take necessary measures to prevent any escalation of unrest.
