Sundargarh: Internet services have been restored and all prohibitory restrictions lifted in Sundargarh town on Friday following a review of the law-and-order situation by the district administration. The prohibitory orders imposed under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS) were withdrawn after a peace committee meeting, with officials stating that normalcy has returned to the area.
According to the district administration, the decision to lift restrictions was taken after assessing the ground situation and holding discussions with representatives from various sections of society. With the withdrawal of curbs, daily life and routine activities have resumed across the town. However, the police continue to maintain strict vigil to ensure that peace is sustained, and authorities have warned that stringent legal action will be taken against anyone attempting to disturb communal harmony.
The peace committee meeting, convened by the administration, saw participation from community leaders and local stakeholders. Officials said the discussions played a key role in restoring confidence and facilitating the return to normal life.
Earlier, prohibitory orders under Section 163 of the BNSS had been enforced across Sundargarh town and internet services suspended as a preventive measure after tensions flared in the Regent Market area. As part of the precautionary steps, all schools and colleges in the town were also closed on Friday.
The situation turned tense on Thursday afternoon when an agitated group vandalised a meat shop near the Nari Kalyan Kendra, alleging that beef was being sold there. During the incident, a pick-up van was set on fire, while a car and a scooter were also damaged. Following the violence, police intensified patrolling in sensitive areas and senior officials closely monitored the situation to prevent any further escalation.
With restrictions now lifted, the administration has appealed to the public to maintain peace and cooperate with authorities, stressing that harmony and lawfulness remain top priorities.
