Puri: A day after sealing ‘Jaya Hotel’ in Satyabadi area of Puri for allegedly serving beef to customers in the name of mutton, the district administration on Sunday imposed prohibitory orders around the eatery.
Official sources said that probibitory orders under section 163 of Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS) have been clamped within an area of one-kilometre radius of the hotel to prevent any untoward incident.
The district authorities took swift action against Jaya Hotel after a video that surfaced online reportedly showed beef being served at the eatery. As the viral video triggered unrest among the local residents, the authorities decided to impose prohibitory orders. The incident has drawn strong reactions within the community.
Following the allegation, officials acted quickly and sealed the premises of Jaya Hotel. The administration is conducting a thorough investigation into the incident, while appealing to the public to stay calm. Adequate steps are also being undertaken to maintain law and order in the area.
The eatery was popular for its mutton dishes and is frequented by travellers and locals, alike.
Sources further stated that sample of the meat seized from the eatery has been sent to the State Laboratory at OUAT in Bhubaneswar to verify the claims. A sub-inspector of Satyabadi police station has also been transferred to the headquarters amid allegations of providing protection to cattle mafia in the area.
Puri Collector Siddharth Shankar Swain said that this is serious allegations since it involves religious sentiments. “The video is the primary source of information. Police conducted raids and later sealed the eatery. People concerned are being questioned and strict action will be taken against those found guilty. It is being investigated if it is being carried out in an organised manner. The hoteliers will also be asked to practice caution,” he added.
Meanwhile, the eatery owner has denied the allegation and termed it as a mischief by those unable to do business in the area.
