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The district administration in Balasore, Odisha, has imposed a curfew following violent clashes between two groups, police reported on Tuesday. The curfew, effective from midnight on June 17 to midnight on June 18, aims to restore order in the town. Section 144 of the CrPC has been invoked in response to the clashes, ANI reported. Additionally, internet services in sensitive areas have been suspended, and residents have been urged to remain indoors, as per PTI.
Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, after speaking with Balasore Collector Ashish Thakare, directed immediate measures to control the situation, officials stated.
The conflict erupted when a group protested against suspected animal sacrifice blood on the road in the Bhujakhia Pir area. This led to stone-pelting by another group, escalating the situation into a full-blown clash, according to police accounts.
Late Monday night, tensions flared in the city with violent clashes breaking out between two communities. In Golapokhari, Motiganj, and Cinema Chhak areas, members of one community launched attacks on the homes of another using stones, sticks, and glass bottles. The chaos escalated as vehicles were set ablaze.
The attackers did not confine their rampage to the main areas but also invaded various villages, hurling stones at houses and setting them on fire. The situation became so volatile that police had to resort to blank firing to regain control and disperse the crowds.
Additional Director General of Police (Law & Order) Sanjay Kumar is currently stationed in Balasore. A police flag march was conducted, and approximately 30 individuals have been arrested so far. Police announced, “All entry points to the OT Road were closed,” and emphasized that “No person shall leave their homes or move on foot, by vehicle, or travel except for emergency medical aid.”
Balasore SP Sagarika Nath confirmed, “Curfew has been clamped in Balasore municipality area. All commercial establishments and shops will remain closed.”
A senior police officer added, “Adequate police arrangements in the sensitive areas have been made, and the situation is getting under control, though some sporadic violence was reported in some places yesterday.”
