Bhadrak, Oct 1: Odisha DGP YB Khurania on Tuesday assured that normalcy in Bhadrak district is expected to be fully restored within a day or two, urging residents to disregard misleading social media posts.
Following a clash on Friday evening triggered by a controversial social media post, prohibitory orders were imposed in Bhadrak and Dhamnagar. In response, the state government suspended internet services in Bhadrak until 2 AM Wednesday.
After assessing the situation in both towns, DGP Khurania reported that order has been maintained and no further incidents have occurred.
He noted the deployment of 12 platoons and one company of the Rapid Action Force (RAF) in Bhadrak, while Dhamnagar saw the deployment of 6 platoons and another RAF company. Regular police flag marches are being conducted to reassure the community.
The DGP encouraged residents to remain vigilant and report any objectionable content they encounter online. So far, police have filed five cases and arrested 27 individuals—10 in Bhadrak and 17 in Dhamnagar—connected to the violence. Two police officers sustained injuries during the stone-pelting incident in Bhadrak on Friday.
To support local businesses, authorities have permitted market operations from 6 AM to 8 PM, according to DIG (Eastern) Satyajit Naik, who added that a decision regarding the restoration of internet services will be made soon.
