The situation in Bhadrak is gradually improving, with internet services normalizing after a four-day shutdown that followed unrest over a controversial social media post. As of last night, residents regained access to the internet, although 163 remains in effect.
Yesterday, DG Police YB Khurania visited Bhadrak to assess the situation and urged the public to avoid spreading false propaganda and rumors on social media.
The unrest stemmed from a post targeting a specific community, prompting members of that community to block roads by burning tires near Santhia Pole on Friday afternoon. Bhadrak Tehsildar and Old Bazar Police intervened, attempting to convince the demonstrators to clear the roads.
However, tensions escalated when agitators attacked the police, resulting in injuries to three officers and several staff members. The protesters also vandalized the Bhadrak Tehsildar’s lane. Tension continues in the Dhamnagar police station area as a result of the incident.
Authorities have arrested 27 individuals connected to the police attack, including 10 from Bhadrak and 17 from the Dhamnagar police station.