Odisha Police Tighten Security for Durga Puja Idol Immersion Across Seven Districts

Odisha Police have strengthened security arrangements for the upcoming Bhasani processions and Durga Puja idol immersion across seven districts under the Central Range to ensure peaceful and orderly celebrations.

IGP Central Range Dr. Satyajit Naik, IPS, has directed district Superintendents of Police to maintain strict vigilance, ensure adequate deployment and take immediate action against any law-and-order violations.

According to the police, *1,389 Durga Puja mandaps* across Puri, Khordha, Cuttack, Kendrapada, Nayagarh, Jajpur and Jagatsinghpur will be covered by security arrangements, with approximately *56 platoons of police personnel* deployed for crowd control and procession management.

The use of DJ systems during immersion processions has been banned, with traditional musical instruments permitted subject to applicable rules. Police will closely monitor sensitive areas, track potentially inflammatory social media content, prevent rumours and enforce designated procession routes and timings. Traffic management and safety measures at immersion ghats will also receive special attention.

Puja committees, organisers and community representatives have been asked to cooperate with the administration and follow all safety guidelines. Dr. Naik appealed to citizens to maintain discipline, mutual respect and communal harmony throughout the celebrations.

The police have urged the public to avoid forwarding unverified information and report suspicious activities or emergencies to the nearest police station or *Dial 112*.