Cuttack situation normal, police stage flag march in sensitive areas

Cuttack, Oct 10 (PTI) Odisha Police on Friday conducted a flag march in the sensitive areas of Cuttack city ahead of a mass prayer by a particular community and warned of strict action against those spreading rumours on social media.

The march was carried out in Dargah Bazaar and Kadam Rasul areas, which were affected during recent violence.

Police Commissioner S Dev Dutta Singh visited the localities and reviewed the security arrangements.

"Though normalcy has largely returned, some elements are still attempting to spread misinformation through social media posts. If required, we will invoke sedition charges against those threatening communal harmony," Singh told reporters.

He urged the public to remain vigilant to such social media posts and cooperate with police.

Stating that police have issued two helpline numbers – 7328077324 and 8480513007, Singh urged the public to report suspicious messages, rumours, or videos related to the recent unrest.

"Cuttack is traditionally a peaceful place. People can safely celebrate their festivals without any doubt as police deployment continues in the city as a precautionary measure. Police are now focusing more on rumour mongers and mischief makers," Singh said.

Singh said so far 30 people have been arrested for their alleged links with two violent incidents — one during a Goddess Durga idol immersion procession on Saturday and another on Sunday evening during a bike rally organised by the Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP). PTI AAM AAM MNB