Tensions in Bhadrak, Odisha, have escalated dramatically following violent protests over a controversial social media post. The situation took a violent turn on Friday, leaving several police officers injured, and leading the district administration to suspend internet services and impose prohibitory orders. The unrest has sparked concerns about the spread of misinformation, prompting authorities to take swift action to prevent further violence.
The Initial Incident
The unrest began after locals protested the police’s alleged inaction over an objectionable post shared on Facebook. The post had triggered outrage, particularly within certain communities, who demanded that the individuals responsible be arrested. When their complaint was seemingly ignored, a group of around 50 people took to the streets, organizing a rally to pressure the authorities into action.
As the group approached the Sathia area on the outskirts of Bhadrak town, they were stopped by the police, who instructed them not to enter the town. This intervention led to a heated argument between the demonstrators and the police, which soon escalated into a scuffle.
Escalation and Violence
The confrontation between the police and the protestors spiraled out of control when the police attempted to disperse the crowd with a lathi charge. In response, the protesters began pelting stones at the police. The violent clash left three police officers, including Bhadrak City Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) Ansuman Dwivedi and Sub-Inspector (SI) Rojen Murmu, seriously injured. They were immediately taken to a local hospital for treatment.
In addition to the injuries, the protestors also damaged the official vehicle of the Bhadrak Tehsildar. The situation quickly worsened, prompting authorities to take decisive action to prevent the unrest from spreading further.
Prohibitory Orders and Internet Suspension
In light of the violent clashes, the Bhadrak district administration imposed prohibitory orders under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nyay Sanhita Samhita (BNSS) within the Purunabazar police limits. The order, issued by Sub-Divisional Magistrate Monaj Patra, strictly prohibits any gathering, meeting, or agitation in the designated area, with violations to be dealt with severely by authorities.
Furthermore, internet services in Bhadrak’s Santhia area were suspended for 48 hours to curb the spread of misinformation and prevent the situation from worsening. The district administration deployed seven platoons of police to restore law and order, with an additional ten platoons and senior officers dispatched to maintain peace.
Arrests and Law Enforcement Response
As of the latest reports, nine individuals have been detained in connection with the violence. Police officials have also initiated flag marches, vehicle patrols, and erected barricades across Bhadrak to maintain public order. Senior officials, including the Deputy Inspector General (DIG) of Police, Bhadrak Superintendent of Police (SP), and the District Collector, are closely monitoring the situation. The police have assured the public that they will apprehend all individuals responsible for the violence and the inflammatory social media post.
A critical meeting was convened at Puruna Bazar police station, attended by key figures such as Bhadrak District Collector Dilip Routrai, DIG Satyajit Nayak, Bhadrak MLA Sitansu Sekhar Mohapatra, and Bhadrak SP Barun Guntupalli. The meeting focused on strategies to apprehend those involved in the unrest and ensure peace is restored.
Broader Impact and Cyber Cell Investigation
Tensions have also spread to Dhamnagar, where a specific community staged protests and blocked roads in response to the incident. Authorities have imposed Section 163 of BNSS in Dhamnagar Notified Area Council, Dobol, and surrounding regions. Four additional platoons of police have been deployed to maintain order in these areas.
Meanwhile, the district’s cyber cell has launched an investigation into the contentious social media post that ignited the protests. The DIG has stated that appropriate action will be taken if the post is found to be inflammatory. He also assured that those responsible for attacking police officers, damaging property, and disrupting public order will face strict legal consequences.
Preventive Measures to Maintain Peace
The district administration has emphasized the importance of maintaining peace and preventing the further spread of violence. With internet services suspended and gatherings strictly monitored, authorities are working to prevent any resurgence of unrest. Shops and markets in Bhadrak have been allowed to open at designated times under strict supervision to ensure law and order.
The situation in Bhadrak remains tense, but authorities are hopeful that their swift actions will prevent the violence from escalating further. Local communities have been urged to remain calm and cooperate with law enforcement as efforts to restore peace continue.
(With inputs from agencies)
