Bhubaneswar/Rairangpur: The Mayurbhanj administration has imposed strict restrictions on media access to Pahadpur village on June 20, as high-level security arrangements are finalised for the visit of President Droupadi Murmu and Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
In an official communication, the District Information and Public Relations Officer (DI&PRO) has requested all print and electronic media representatives to refrain from proceeding to or entering Pahadpur on that day. The restriction follows recommendations from the District Intelligence Bureau and the Superintendent of Police to ensure the smooth conduct of the VVIP visit and maintain stringent security protocols.
Media personnel have been urged to cooperate with the administration to facilitate the visit without disruptions. Further details on alternative coverage arrangements were not immediately specified in the official note.
President Murmu is scheduled to arrive in Mayurbhanj on June 19, with Prime Minister Modi expected on June 20. Both leaders are likely to visit Pahadpur during their itinerary, which also includes participation in a major public event in Rairangpur marking the second anniversary of the Odisha BJP government.
Pahadpur, located in the Kusumi block of Mayurbhanj district and approximately 20 km from Rairangpur, holds deep personal significance for President Murmu. It is the native village of her late husband, Shyam Charan Murmu, a banker whom she married in 1980. The village is her in-laws’ home, and the President has previously visited to pay tributes at memorials for her husband and sons.
The high-profile visit comes amid other security measures in the district, including a no-drone zone declaration over key areas to bolster safety during the events.
This joint visit by the President and Prime Minister is being seen as a significant occasion for the tribal-dominated region, with expectations of foundation stone laying and inaugurations of development projects alongside the anniversary celebrations.
On Tuesday, Chief Minister Mohan Majhi also chaired a high-level review meeting to assess security arrangements and administrative preparedness. He directed the Director General of Police (DGP), Home Department, Intelligence Wing, and senior police officials to ensure foolproof security arrangements and prevent any lapse during the high-profile visit.
Officials were instructed to maintain seamless coordination between central security agencies and the Odisha Police and execute all arrangements strictly according to the approved security blueprint.
