Bhubaneswar: The Commissionerate Police have launched a cash reward scheme to encourage citizens to report illegal manufacturing or storage of explosives in twin cities of Bhubaneswar and Cuttack.
This followed two recent fatal incidents linked to such unlawful activities.
According to sources, a Rs 10,000 reward has been announced for credible tips leading to successful action against unlawful explosives operations in the twin cities. The scheme, which is valid until March 31, is aimed at encouraging public involvement in eliminating neighbourhood hazards.
To facilitate anonymous reporting, dedicated helplines have been established: 7077798111 for Bhubaneswar and 7328077324 for Cuttack. Police have assured that anonymity would be ful
ly protected to alleviate fears of reprisal.
A history-sheeter named Sehnawaz Malik and his mother Lizatun Bibi died after a crude bomb they were allegedly assembling exploded on the rooftop of their home in Bhubaneswar’s Airfield area on January 27. Two others were critically injured in the incident. On February 19, three family members, including a four-year-old girl, were killed in a powerful explosion at their residence in Mahajanpur village under Jagatpur police limits in Cuttack, while reportedly handling firecrackers or related materials.
In a related outreach effort, police conducted a rally in Cuttack on Sunday, carrying placards to raise awareness. Messages included warnings such as “Cracker blast is not just dangerous, but also shatters families and livelihoods. Be responsible.”
Posting pictures from the rally, the official X handle of Cuttack DCP wrote: “Strict action will be taken against illegal manufacture and hoarding of crackers in Jagatpur PS area under Cuttack UPD. All persons are hereby warned not to manufacture, store, or stock crackers without valid permission. Legal action will be initiated against violators.”