Bhubaneswar, Aug. 20 (UDN): Odisha Housing and Urban Development Minister Krushna Chandra Mahapatra has warned of strict action against auto-rickshaw drivers allegedly involved in Wednesday’s violent protest in Bhubaneswar, saying those responsible for damaging public property will have to bear the cost.
The Minister also announced that illegal auto stands linked to drivers involved in the violence will be demolished, while licences of those found responsible for damaging government vehicles could face cancellation.
‘Violence in Name of Protest Will Not Be Tolerated’
Condemning the unrest, Mahapatra said protesters cannot take the law into their own hands or target members of the public and government property.
He said the administration would identify those responsible for the vandalism and initiate action according to the law.
The Minister’s remarks came after a protest by auto drivers in the city escalated into clashes with police, resulting in injuries and damage to government vehicles.
16 Policemen Injured
The agitation began with hundreds of auto drivers taking out a procession from Master Canteen towards Lower PMG, where protesters blocked the road.
The situation reportedly deteriorated after allegations of stone-pelting at police personnel. Sixteen police personnel were injured during the confrontation.
Police later resorted to a lathi-charge at around 1 pm to disperse the crowd and restore traffic movement. Several protesters were also injured, while one person who reportedly fell unconscious was taken to Capital Hospital for treatment.
Police Vehicles Damaged
According to reports, 11 police vans were damaged during the unrest.
Following the escalation, additional security personnel were deployed at key locations, including Master Canteen and Gandhi Marg, to prevent any further disturbance.
The administration has indicated that action will focus on individuals found directly involved in violence and vandalism, while efforts are underway to assess the extent of damage to public property.
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