By Our Correspondent
KATAKA/BHUBANESWAR:In view of the ensuing Bhasani processions (Durga Puja idol immersion), the Office of the Inspector General of Police, Central Range, Kataka, has put in place comprehensive security arrangements across the seven districts under its jurisdiction to ensure peaceful, orderly and incident-free celebrations.
IGP, Central Range, Kataka, Dr. Satyajit Naik, IPS, has directed all district Superintendents of Police to ensure adequate police deployment, close monitoring of sensitive locations and strict enforcement of prescribed safety regulations during immersion processions and related activities.
As per the compiled district-wise arrangements, 1,389 Durga Puja mandaps fall under the seven districts of Puri, Khordha, Cuttack, Kendrapada, Nayagarh, Jajpur and Jagatsinghpur. Approximately 56 platoons of police force have been earmarked for security and crowd management during the immersion period, in addition to other necessary arrangements as assessed by the respective district police.
Key Security Measures
1. Complete Ban on DJ Music
The use of DJ systems in Bhasani processions is strictly prohibited. Procession organisers and participants shall use only traditional musical instruments, including drums and dhol, in accordance with the applicable permissions and prescribed conditions. District police will ensure strict enforcement of the restriction, and violations will invite appropriate legal action.
2. Enhanced Police Deployment and Crowd Management
Adequate police personnel will be deployed along procession routes, at immersion points, in crowded areas and at other strategically important locations. Special attention will be given to maintaining orderly movement, preventing overcrowding, ensuring safe passage and facilitating the smooth conduct of immersion processions.
3. Close Monitoring of Vulnerable and Sensitive Areas
District police have been directed to identify and maintain heightened vigilance in vulnerable areas, communally sensitive locations and places with a history of tension or potential law-and-order concerns. Regular patrolling, area dominance, coordination with local intelligence units and prompt response to emerging situations will be ensured.
4. Social Media Monitoring and Prevention of Rumours
Dedicated monitoring mechanisms will track publicly accessible social media posts, messages and online content relating to religious communities, religious sentiments and the immersion processions that may have the potential to provoke tensions or disturb public order. Any suspected inflammatory content, deliberate misinformation, provocative messaging or attempts to spread rumours will be examined promptly, and appropriate legal action will be initiated wherever warranted.
Citizens are urged not to create, circulate or forward unverified information, provocative messages or misleading content. Any concerns should be reported to the local police or through Dial 112.
5. Strict Enforcement of Law and Order
All district police units have been instructed to remain alert and take prompt action against unlawful activities, attempts to disturb communal harmony, disorderly conduct and violations of applicable procession-related restrictions. Coordination among police stations, field officers, intelligence units and district administrations will be maintained throughout the immersion period.
6. Traffic Regulation and Safe Procession Routes
Traffic arrangements will be implemented in accordance with local requirements to facilitate the smooth movement of immersion processions and minimise inconvenience to the public. Organisers and participants must adhere to designated routes, prescribed timings and instructions issued by the local administration and police.
7. Public Safety at Immersion Points
Special attention will be given to safety at immersion ghats and other designated locations. Police personnel will coordinate with the concerned authorities to manage crowds, prevent unsafe entry into water and ensure compliance with safety instructions. Volunteers and organisers are expected to cooperate fully with the authorities.
8. Community Coordination and Public Cooperation
District police will maintain communication with Puja committees, procession organisers, community representatives and local stakeholders to promote mutual respect, communal harmony and peaceful celebrations. Citizens are encouraged to cooperate with police personnel and immediately report suspicious activities or any situation that may affect public safety.
Appeal to the Public
IGP, Central Range, Kataka, Dr. Satyajit Naik, IPS, has appealed to all citizens to celebrate the Bhasani procession and idol immersion with discipline, restraint and mutual respect. People are requested to strictly follow police instructions, respect the prescribed restrictions, refrain from spreading rumours and cooperate with the administration in maintaining peace and communal harmony.
The Central Range of Odisha Police reiterates its commitment to ensuring the safe, peaceful and orderly conduct of all immersion processions and calls upon every citizen to contribute to a secure and harmonious environment.
In case of an emergency, dial 112.
