KEONJHAR : The district administration of Keonjhar on Tuesday suspended internet services in the district after clashes broke out over a Ram Navami rally a day ago. The district administration also extended the bans imposed on the city of Joda, the site of the clashes, for another 24 hours.
Officials confirmed the decision to suspend internet services, citing the prevention of rumors that could incite further violence. The curfew also brought banking and mineral transportation activities to an abrupt halt with the extension, causing rows of trucks to get stuck on the main roads.
“Banning orders under Section 144 CrPC were first imposed Monday evening to 10 a.m. Tuesday in view of the clashes. It was later extended by 24 hours to avoid mass gatherings. Internet services have been suspended to prevent rumours,” the statement said. district. official said.
Senior officials, including the Chief Inspector of Police of Keonjhar, met with leaders of both communities in the morning in an effort to calm them down, the official said.
As many as 17 police platoons, each consisting of 30 personnel, have been deployed in the area to control law and order.
A group of people had set off a Ram Navami procession in the city on Monday, despite local police denying permission.
It was intercepted halfway through by members of another community, after which clashes ensued between the two sides, in which eight people were injured.
Several vehicles were damaged in the battle.
