Odisha security forces hold flag march in violence-hit Bhadrak

Odisha Sun Times Bureau
Bhadrak, Apr 8:

With the curfew remained in force in Bhadrak town of Odisha following unrest erupted on offensive remark on Hindu deities, the security forces held flag march in violence-hit areas. Besides, Centre rushed 2,000 paramilitary personnel to the trouble-torn town.

Total 15 platoons of police forces along with anti-riot vehicle Vajra and senior officials including ADG Binayananda Jha participated in the flag march, which started from Town police station.

Meanwhile, two companies of central forces have been mobilized to stabilize the situation. They will reach Bhadrak shortly. The administration has deployed 35 platoons of state police forces at the communal violence-hit areas of the town.

“The situation is under control. The curfew has remained in force in the town. 35 platoons of police have been deployed at several places of the town. If required, more forces will be deployed. All the necessary measures are being taken to restore peace and harmony in the town. Four companies of central forces will reach Bhadrak after State wrote to Centre to control the situation”, said Odisha Chief Secretary Aditya Prasad Padhi.

“Bhadrak town is prone to communal incidents given our past experience. Though the state police has been deployed to control the situation, we need reinforcement of specialized forces for tackling communal violence. I would, therefore, request your intervention to deploy four companies of Rapid Action Force immediately to aide the state police at Bhadrak town,” Padhi wrote to Union Home Secretary Rajiv Mehrishi.

According to reports, Centre rushed 2,000 paramilitary personnel to assist local administration and maintain law and order in the troubled town.

Notably, the curfew period has been extended till 8 am next day. State Home Secretary Asit Tripathy and DGP KB Singh have camped in Bhadrak to monitor the situation.