Berhampur: Acting on the recommendation of Berhampur Police, Ganjam District Magistrate Keerthi Vasan V has ordered the preventive detention of an alleged anti-social element under the National Security Act (NSA), 1980, citing concerns over public order and security.
The detention order was issued against Sagar Behera, 36, a resident of Nandigaon village under Jarada police station limits, in NSA Case No. 01/2026 under Section 3(2) of the National Security Act. Authorities stated that the order was passed after concluding that his activities were prejudicial to the maintenance of public order and tranquillity.
Following the issuance of the order, Behera, son of Dhoba Behera, was taken into custody by Jarada Police and lodged in Circle Jail, Berhampur.
According to official sources, the District Magistrate examined police reports, criminal case records, intelligence inputs, station diary entries and other relevant materials before invoking the provisions of the NSA.
Officials said Behera has an extensive criminal record spanning from 2011 to 2026, with multiple cases registered against him at Jarada and K. Nuagaon police stations. The cases reportedly involve charges related to rioting, causing hurt, criminal intimidation, extortion, violent assaults, threats with deadly weapons, and violations of the Odisha Prevention of Gambling Act and Minor Minerals Rules.
The administration noted that an assessment of the available records indicated a consistent pattern of activities allegedly affecting public order. Authorities further observed that the nature, gravity, frequency and continuity of the offences, along with the likelihood of repeated criminal conduct, made ordinary legal measures insufficient to prevent future disturbances.
Consequently, preventive detention under the National Security Act was considered necessary to safeguard public peace and security in the region, officials said.
Police records indicate that Behera is facing 11 criminal cases and is currently lodged in Berhampur jail following the execution of the detention order.
The district administration reiterated its commitment to maintaining law and order and taking stringent action against habitual offenders whose activities pose a threat to public safety and communal harmony.
