Bhubaneswar: With a series of major festivals set to be observed across Odisha in the coming weeks, the state police have intensified preparations to ensure that celebrations pass off peacefully and without incident. A comprehensive review meeting was held at the State Police Headquarters under the chairmanship of Yogesh Bahadur Khurania, Director General of Police, to assess law and order arrangements ahead of the festive period.
The upcoming calendar includes Dol Purnima on the 3rd, Holi on the 4th, Eid-ul-Fitr on the 21st, Shri Ram Navami on the 27th, Hanuman Jayanti on April 14, and Maha Bishuba Sankranti, all of which are expected to witness large public participation across urban and rural areas of the state. In view of the scale of these celebrations, the DGP directed senior officers to accord top priority to public safety and communal harmony.
The meeting, conducted virtually, was attended by senior officers including Soumendra Priyadarshi, Additional Director General of Police (Modernisation); Sanjay Kumar, Additional Director General of Police (Law and Order); S. Praveen Kumar, IG (Personnel); Charan Singh Meena, DIG (Provisioning); and Jugal Kishore Kumar Banoth, DIG (Personnel), along with all Range IGs, DIGs and district Superintendents of Police.
During the review, DGP Khurania emphasised the need for extensive security arrangements, particularly in sensitive areas and during religious processions. He instructed district police units to intensify patrolling, undertake strict checking and maintain heightened surveillance in vulnerable pockets. Adequate deployment during foot processions and bike rallies was stressed to prevent any untoward incidents.
Recognising the growing influence of digital platforms, the DGP directed that special attention be given to monitoring social media to prevent the spread of rumours, misinformation and provocative content. District cyber cells have been asked to maintain round-the-clock vigilance and act swiftly against rumour mongers or those attempting to disturb communal harmony.
He further advised district SPs to strengthen intelligence gathering, install CCTV cameras at sensitive urban locations, and activate peace committees by holding meetings with community leaders and public representatives. Maintaining close coordination with local stakeholders was described as crucial for ensuring orderly celebrations.
The DGP also instructed officers to enforce traffic regulations strictly, take firm action against drunk driving and curb DJ sound pollution during festivities. Preventive measures against habitual offenders and mischief-makers were highlighted as part of a broader strategy to maintain law and order.
Reiterating the importance of preparedness, Khurania directed all senior officers to remain alert and ready to respond promptly to any emerging situation. With coordinated action across districts, Odisha Police aim to ensure that the forthcoming festivals are celebrated in an atmosphere of peace, unity and security.
