Jagatsinghpur: The Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM), Jagatsinghpur, has imposed prohibitory restrictions under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS) in Fulapatana village under Bandar Marine Police Station limits ahead of the installation of a deity idol, officials said on Monday.
The order was issued following a report from the Inspector-in-Charge (IIC) of Bandar Marine Marine Police Station, which flagged the possibility of tension between two groups over the installation of the new idol of Maa Kutamachandi in the village.
Acting on the report, the SDM observed that preventive measures were necessary to maintain law and order and avoid any breach of peace. Authorities said there were sufficient grounds to act in advance to prevent any escalation of the situation.
The restrictions prohibit any unauthorised assembly or gathering at the installation site and its surrounding areas. The order came into effect on June 22 and will remain in force until further notice.
The directive also restrains all parties involved from engaging in any activity that could escalate tensions or disturb peace and order at the disputed site.
Since the order is applicable to the general public and immediate service was not feasible, it has been issued as a public directive.
The order was issued under the powers conferred by Section 163 of the BNSS, which allows executive magistrates to take preventive action in urgent situations to maintain public order and prevent potential violence.
The administration has urged residents of Fulapatana village to cooperate and maintain peace during the period of restriction.
