Section 144 in Odisha's Balasore After Clash Between 2 Groups, 30 Arrested

Balasore: A clash between two groups over the blood of animal sacrifice on the road prompted the authorities to impose Section 144 in Odisha's Balasore town, said police on Tuesday. The curfew imposed on Monday midnight will remain in force till Tuesday midnight. 

Additionally, internet services have also been suspended in certain sensitive areas of the town while the district administration urged people to stay indoors and not to step out. 

Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi on Monday spoke to Balasore Collector Ashish Thakare and directed him to take immediate measures to bring the situation under control, news agency PTI quoting officials said. 

Stone Pelting Reported

On Monday, the clashes broke out after a group of people held a sit-in in the Bhujakhia Pir area of the town, protesting the blood of animal sacrifice on the road. The other group then allegedly pelted stones at them, which escalated the matter. 

Additional Director General of Police (Law & Order) Sanjay Kumar has been camping in the town. Police conducted a flag march in Balasore. As many as 30 people have been arrested so far, police said. 

All entry points towards the OT Road have been closed, police said, adding that "no person shall leave their homes or shall move on foot, or by vehicle or travel except for emergency medical aid."  

Balasore SP Sagarika Nath confirmed that a curfew has been clamped in Balasore municipality area and all commercial establishments and shops will remain closed. 

Heavy police force has been deployed in the sensitive areas of the town and “The situation is getting under control though some sporadic violence was reported in some places yesterday," PTI, quoting a senior police officer, reported.