Odisha Authorities Arrest Ten Following Clash in Bhadrak Over Social Media Controversy

Nine individuals were detained on Saturday in connection with a clash between two communities and an assault on police officers in Odisha's Bhadrak district. The unrest was sparked by an offensive social media post, according to police reports. The person responsible for the post, which caused tension in the district, was also arrested, as confirmed by a senior officer.

The state government suspended internet services in Bhadrak for two days following a protest on Friday where police were attacked with stones over the social media post. "The man responsible for the social media post has been held," stated Bhadrak DSP Anshuman Diwedi, who was among the injured officers. Nine others were also taken into custody on charges of rioting.

Internet Suspension and Law Enforcement Measures

To maintain order, prohibitory orders under section 163 of BNSS have been enforced in Puruna Bazar and Dhamnagar Police Station areas. Earlier, the home department announced that internet services would be suspended in Bhadrak for 48 hours until 2 am on September 30 under Section 52 of the Indian Telegraph Act, 1885. This measure aims to prevent the spread of inflammatory messages through platforms like WhatsApp, Facebook, and X.

A complaint was filed against a youth accused of posting objectionable content on social media, which allegedly hurt the religious sentiments of a community. Members of this community staged a protest rally on Friday, accusing authorities of delaying action against the accused. When police intervened to stop the unauthorized rally, protesters responded by throwing stones at them.

Community Tensions and Police Response

The incident resulted in injuries to two policemen, including DSP Diwedi, and damage to the vehicle of Bhadrak Tehsildar. A clash erupted between two communities in Santhia area over the social media post on Friday afternoon, which later spread to Dhamnagar area. "Any congregation, gathering, meeting, or agitation is strictly prohibited in the proceeding area," warned an administrative order.

To restore peace, at least 14 platoons of police force have been deployed in violence-hit Puruna Bazaar and Dhamnagar. Each platoon comprises 30 personnel. The police have intensified patrolling efforts across the district to ensure calm is restored.

Senior officials such as DIG, Bhadrak SP, and the district collector engaged in discussions with peace committee members to address the situation. These efforts are part of broader measures aimed at preventing further unrest and ensuring community harmony is maintained throughout Bhadrak district.