Bhubaneswar: Odisha Science & Technology Minister Krushna Chandra Patra on Sunday defended the state’s law and order situation, describing Odisha as a peaceful state.
His remarks came in response to the recent US State Department’s Level 2 travel advisory for India, which includes Odisha and urges travelers to “exercise increased caution” due to rising concerns about crime and terrorism in certain regions.
Addressing reporters, Minister Patra questioned the basis of the advisory, highlighting safety issues in the United States. “Is there no disturbance in America? Riots happen there. Gun violence is a regular occurrence. Was not there an attack on Trump? Was not there an attack on the White House?” he said.
The minister reiterated that Odisha is a peace-loving state, emphasizing, “You won’t find an atmosphere like this anywhere else in the world.”
He further assured that any law and order issues would be dealt with firmly.
“Our government does not tolerate criminal activities at all and strict action is being taken. People in Odisha are living peacefully,” he added.
On June 16, the US State Department issued a Level 2 travel advisory for India, including Odisha, warning of violent crimes such as sexual assault occurring at tourist sites and other public places. The advisory also cautions about the possibility of terrorist attacks with little or no warning targeting tourist locations, transportation hubs, markets, shopping malls, and government facilities.
Additionally, the advisory notes ongoing threats from Maoist extremist (Naxalite) activity in parts of Maharashtra, Telangana, West Bengal, Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, Odisha, and neighboring states, with attacks on government officials and police personnel continuing.
