Bhadrak tension: Bhubaneswar, (Reporterspen) Sept 28: In response to escalating tensions in Bhadrak district, the Odisha government suspended internet services on Saturday for a duration of 48 hours. The decision follows a protest where locals pelted stones at police, resulting in injuries to three personnel over an “objectionable” Facebook post.
Official sources confirmed that internet services will remain restricted until 2 am on September 30. The suspension is enforced under Section 5(2) of the Indian Telegraph Act, 1885, and aims to prevent the spread of inflammatory messages and restore peace in the area.
According to the Home Department’s order, access to social media platforms such as WhatsApp, Facebook, and X, as well as mobile internet and broadband services, will be prohibited during this period.
Additionally, the district administration has imposed prohibitory orders under Section 163 of BNSS in the Puruna Bazaar and Dhamnagar areas to maintain law and order. At least 14 platoons of police have been deployed to these violence-affected regions. The order, signed by sub-divisional magistrate Monaj Patra, states that any gatherings or protests are strictly forbidden, with violations likely to face serious consequences from the District Administration.
