Demonstration, rallies banned in Odisha Capital

Bhubaneswar: In view of rising cases of coronavirus cases in Bhubaneswar and frequent violation of the directives issued by the Ministry of Home Affairs on COVID-19 guidelines, the Bhubaneswar Municipal Corporation (BMC) today banned demonstrations/rallies by any organization/groups/political party/group in Bhubaneswar. It also asked the concerned police station to take immediate appropriate action.

In an order, the BMC said the lICs are instructed to stop such demonstration/rally/gathering and take appropriate legal action on their own motion without waiting for intimation/complaints from BMC or any other sources whenever they receive information about such protests.

The BMC also cited some instances in recent pasts when some organizations/groups/political parties were seen participating in demonstration before various public offices and in public places regarding various issues.

“In the last two to three days about five such demonstrations have been noticed for which complaints have been lodged by BMC with the respective police station for legal action. Such congregations are expressly prohibited as per National directives issued by the Ministry of Home Affairs, Govt of India. Further these activities have also been prohibited as per clause 4(a)(iv) and 8(e) pf recently issued Odisha Govt guidelines,” the order said.

So far, a total of 414 COVID-19 positive cases have been detected in Odisha Capital.