Odisha's Police Instruction Controversy: Democracy Under Threat?

A controversial video allegedly showing Odisha cadre IPS officer Narasingha Bhol instructing police to 'break legs' of Congress workers sparked outrage. The video emerged during a Congress protest at the chief minister’s residence over a fatal stampede in Puri. The opposition accuses the BJP government of undemocratic actions.

A video allegedly capturing Bhubaneswar Additional Police Commissioner Narasingha Bhol instructing police to 'break legs' of Congress workers has incited uproar. The directive allegedly occurred amid a protest over management failures during a stampede in Puri that left three dead.

The footage, which went viral, shows Bhol directing officers to prevent protesters from breaching barricades near Odisha's chief minister's residence while promising rewards for those who complied. The incident prompted strong condemnation from Congress leaders, who cited it as an example of the BJP government's heavy-handed tactics.

In response to the allegations, Bhol defended his stance, asserting he only advised officers to act against protesters resorting to unlawful activities. The incident has intensified discussions on the functioning of democracy within the state.

(With inputs from agencies.)