Puri Tightens Security for Kartika Brata as IGP Reviews Habisyali Centres

Odisha Police has stepped up preparations for the upcoming Kartika Brata festival, with special security measures planned for Habisyalis arriving in Puri to observe the holy month. Dr. Satyajit Naik, IPS, Inspector General of Police (IGP), Central Range, Kataka, visited the pilgrim accommodation centres on Friday to assess security arrangements and review preparations for the festival.

He was accompanied by Puri Superintendent of Police Prateek Singh, IPS. During the inspection, the senior police officer examined facilities at the three designated Habisyali accommodation centres and assessed the readiness of the police and other departments to ensure the safety and convenience of devotees.

 Five Police Platoons for Habisyali Centres

As part of the security plan, five platoons of police personnel will remain deployed across the three accommodation centres around the clock from October 26 to November 24, 2026. The force will monitor security, regulate the movement of people and take preventive measures to avert any untoward incidents during the month-long religious observance.

Over 20 Platoons to Handle Security Across Puri

Apart from the arrangements at the accommodation centres, more than 20 additional platoons of police personnel will be assigned various duties throughout Puri. The deployment will cover security at and around the Shree Jagannath Temple, crowd regulation at busy locations, traffic control and the management of emergency situations.

Police control room operations will also play a key role in coordinating personnel on the ground, monitoring developments and ensuring a swift response whenever required.

Focus on Devotee Safety and Smooth Movement

During the review, IGP Satyajit Naik stressed the need for constant vigilance, effective deployment of personnel and coordination among the agencies concerned. Particular attention will be given to preventing overcrowding, maintaining public order and ensuring the uninterrupted movement of pilgrims and emergency vehicles.

SP Prateek Singh and the Puri district police team are supervising the implementation of the security measures.

The Central Range Police has reiterated its commitment to maintaining a peaceful and secure atmosphere throughout Kartika Brata, allowing Habisyalis and other devotees to carry out their religious observances without inconvenience.