Tension persists in Odisha’s Sundargarh on Friday following clashes linked to a dispute over meat sales in the Regent Market area, prompting the district administration to impose prohibitory orders and suspend internet services to prevent further escalation.
Prohibitory orders under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita were enforced across the town, while mobile internet and social media services were suspended. As a precautionary measure, all schools and colleges were closed. Police patrolling has been intensified and senior officers are closely monitoring the situation.
The unrest began on Thursday afternoon when a group, allegedly led by members of the Bajrang Dal, vandalised a meat shop near the Nari Kalyan Kendra, alleging that beef was being sold there. During the incident, a pick-up van was set on fire and a car and a scooter were damaged, officials said.
Sundargarh Collector Subhankar Mohapatra confirmed the suspension of internet services, saying the move was taken in the interest of security. “From the point of security, schools, colleges and other educational institutions will remain closed. After that, a peace committee will be formed and discussions will be held on the next course of action. We request everyone to maintain peace and cooperate so that law and order is maintained throughout the region,” he said.
Officials said the measures were aimed at ensuring public safety and preventing the spread of rumours.
Western Range deputy inspector general of police Brijesh Rai said the incident was triggered by reports of a “suspicious food item” at an individual’s residence. “Police reached the spot immediately under the supervision of the SDPO and handled the situation sensitively. After reports of stone pelting, the Sundargarh SP arrived and dispersed people from both sides,” he said.
Rai added that timely police intervention helped prevent serious injuries. “One police officer was injured, while some civilians sustained minor injuries. No objectionable items were found at the individual’s residence,” he said.
