Odisha Eases Curfew in Balasore Amid Rising Tensions

The Odisha government has partially lifted the curfew in Balasore, which was imposed following a group clash. Curfew relaxation is set for specific hours while educational institutions remain closed. Law enforcement continues to monitor the situation, with many arrests made and a significant police presence in place.

The Odisha government on Friday announced a partial relaxation of the curfew in Balasore town, following recent violent clashes. The district administration has lifted the curfew completely from the Industrial Police Station area, while prohibitory orders persist in other parts till midnight on June 22.

Balasore Collector Ashish Thakare stated that curfew will be relaxed from 5 am to 2 pm on June 22, allowing commercial establishments and routine services to function. However, he confirmed that mobile internet services will remain suspended, although WiFi internet will be restored on Saturday. Educational institutions in the Balasore Municipality area will also stay closed on Saturday.

As part of the ongoing measures, law enforcement has arrested 65 individuals involved in rioting and violating curfew orders. Six central force companies and 40 state force platoons have been deployed to maintain order. Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi has appealed to the public for peace as the administration closely monitors the situation.