Sambalpur violence: Pelting of stones was pre-planned, says SP

Sambalpur: While Odisha’s Sambalpur town continues to remain tense in the aftermath of violence during Hanuman Jayanti motorcycle rally, SP Battula Gangadhar today said the pelting of stones, which sparked the untoward incident, was pre-planned.

“Preliminary investigation revealed that some people had already kept stones in their houses. So far, 26 persons have been apprehended in the stone pelting incident. Special police teams have been formed to nab others who have fled the town,” the police official said at a presser here.

The total number of arrests in the violence incidents has reached 79, he said.

On the other hand, DGP Sunil Bansal today reviewed the situation in the town with senior police officials.

“Curfew restrictions were imposed in the town as precautionary measure after an untoward incident. The curfew will be lifted within a couple of days after restoration of normalcy in the situation,” the top cop said.

Sambalpur Collector Ananya Das said the administration has kept a sharp watch on the situation. The decision on withdrawing suspension of internet services will be taken after reviewing all aspects on daily basis, she said.

Notably, the motorcycle rally was taken out on April 12 ahead of Hanuman Jayanti. While the rally was passing through Motijharan Square, some persons pelted stones at the participants of the rally.

The incident subsequently led to a clash between two groups. Many shops and vehicles were set on fire during the clash.

While trying to take the situation under control, at least 10 police personnel sustained injuries.

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