Section 144 imposed, internet blocked in Balasore as communal violence escalates in Odisha

Updated on June 18, 2024, 13:47 IST

The conflict escalated late Monday evening when members of one community attacked the houses of another community with stones, sticks and glass bottles and set fire to vehicles in Golapokhari, Motiganj and Cinema Chhak areas.

There were outbreaks of violence during Eid celebrations on Monday.

Balasor: Amid escalating communal violence in the state of Odisha over the slaughter of cows during Eid celebrations, Section 144 has been imposed in the coastal town of Balasore and the internet has been blocked since Tuesday morning, police said.

On Monday afternoon, residents of the socially sensitive Patrapada area in Balasore noticed that the water in the drains was turning red, suspecting it to be animal blood, leading to clashes among the community members.

Following accusations by one community of slaughtering a cow, tensions escalated when another community confronted them. Stone-pelting broke out, injuring at least 15 people, including five policemen. The district administration responded by applying Article 144 of the Criminal Procedure Code in the region.

The conflict escalated late on Monday night when members of one community attacked the houses of another community with stones, sticks and glass bottles and set fire to vehicles in Golapokhari, Motiganj and Cinema Chhak areas. The attackers also entered several villages, pelted stones at houses, set fires and vandalised roads. Police had to fire blank cartridges to bring the situation under control.

“We have imposed a curfew in Balasore districts and shut down the internet in some socially sensitive zones to prevent further clashes. We are advising people to stay in their homes. Strict action will be taken against those responsible for the violence,” said Sagarika Nath, district magistrate of Balasore.

Chief Minister Mohan Majhi spoke to the District Collector and directed them to take all necessary measures to maintain control and ensure that law and order is not disturbed. Balasore MP Pratap Sarangi and Sadar MP Manas Kumar Dutt urged both the communities to maintain peace and quiet.

The conflict escalated late Monday evening when members of one community attacked the houses of another community with stones, sticks and glass bottles and set fire to vehicles in Golapokhari, Motiganj and Cinema Chhak areas.

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