Bhubaneswar: In response to the recent blast in Delhi, Odisha Police have intensified security measures throughout the State to address any potential threats, according to Additional DGP (law and order) Sanjay Kumar on Tuesday. “In light of the unfortunate incident in Delhi, we have placed our State police on high alert. All police personnel are vigilant, and critical installations, places of worship, and sensitive areas are under close surveillance,” Kumar informed reporters. “While the situation in Odisha is not alarming, we remain prepared to counter any threats… Our objective is to avert terrorist or anti-national activities in the State. Should any terrorist attempt to enter the State, we will neutralize them,” he stated.
The State Intelligence Wing is maintaining constant communication with various Central agencies, Kumar noted. When questioned about police measures for the ongoing Bali Jatra in Cuttack, where large crowds gather nightly, he mentioned that security is stringent at vulnerable locations within the venue. Kumar assured that the Odisha coast is thoroughly secured, with additional security personnel assigned to the Jagannath temple in Puri. Emphasizing that Odisha is a peaceful State, Kumar urged citizens not to succumb to rumors and misinformation. Special security protocols have also been established at beaches, railway stations, airports, bus terminals, and other crowded locations across Odisha, another police officer added.
Bhubaneswar’s Biju Patnaik International Airport Director Prasanna Pradhan indicated that surveillance has been heightened through the deployment of quick response teams, dog units, and bomb disposal squads. Additionally, the Hotel and Restaurant Association of Odisha has alerted its members to monitor suspicious activities closely and report them to the police. On Monday, Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi instructed Odisha Police to implement extensive security measures throughout the State. This directive followed an explosion in Delhi’s Red Fort area. “I strongly condemn the incident. India has never accepted such inhumane acts, nor will it,” the Chief Minister affirmed.
Majhi expressed confidence that the Central government, under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership, will conduct a thorough investigation into this incident and hold those responsible accountable.