Online Auto Association Chief Held In Puri Over Master Canteen Violence

Bhubaneswar: Commissionerate Police have arrested Online Auto Association president Dinabandhu Nayak, who had been absconding following the violent auto drivers’ protest at Master Canteen Square in Bhubaneswar. He was reportedly detained from Puri.

Police alleged that Nayak was among those who led the agitation that later turned violent at Master Canteen. He had remained untraceable since the incident and was subsequently declared absconding.

Before his arrest, Nayak posted a 14-minute video message on social media, apologising to the public and expressing regret over the developments during the protest. He also claimed that the agitation was not politically motivated and maintained that auto drivers had taken to the streets to press for their legitimate demands.

Meanwhile, police have continued their crackdown on those allegedly involved in the unrest. As many as 380 vehicles have been seized so far in connection with the incident.

Police said 113 people have been arrested and produced before the court, while seven FIRs have been registered at Kharvel Nagar police station.

The authorities have also demolished the office of a taxi association allegedly linked to the violence.

In a separate enforcement action, show-cause notices have been issued to 325 persons for alleged violations of permit conditions. Police have also issued 181 e-challans against vehicles found without mandatory documents, including valid PUCC, insurance and Fitness Certificates.

All 380 seized vehicles have further been booked under Section 201 of the Motor Vehicles Act through e-challans as part of the ongoing action.