Bhubaneswar: Devotees thronged temples across Odisha, including Jagannath Temple in Puri, on Friday to celebrate Ram Navami, amid tight security arrangements.
Governor Hari Babu Kambhampati, Chief Minister Mohan Majhi and Leader of Opposition Naveen Patnaik have extended greetings to the people on the occasion, which marks the birth anniversary of Lord Rama and traditionally involves processions and community events.
To ensure peaceful observance of Ram Navami, elaborate security measures have been put in place in the districts of Bhadrak, Balasore, Cuttack and Sambalpur.
Surveillance has been intensified with more than 300 CCTV cameras across key routes, marketplaces and congregation points in Cuttack, which witnessed clashes during last year’s Dussehra celebrations. Over 30 platoons of police forces along with CRPF personnel have been deployed in the city. Flag marches were also conducted in Dargha Bazar, Choudhury Bazaar, Dolamundai and Buxi Bazaar to instil confidence among residents. “We have ensured robust law and order mechanisms, efficient traffic management, and effective crowd control measures during the festival. Officers are vigilant and taking proactive steps to prevent any untoward incidents,” PTI reported, quoting IGP (Central Range) Satyajit Naik.
Eastern Range DIG Pinak Mishra briefed the media on Thursday, highlighting that Bhadrak and Balasore have been classified as particularly sensitive zones due to past security considerations. He outlined a multi-layered strategy involving significant force deployment and advanced monitoring to maintain law and order. More than 40 platoons of state police along with central security forces have been deployed in Bhadrak for the past few days.
Similarly, 20 platoon forces have been deployed in the town police station and Sahadeva Khunta area of Balasore. No DJ music will be played during the festival.
To build public confidence and deter potential disruptions, regular flag marches are being conducted in both Bhadrak and Balasore. Temporary CCTV cameras have been installed at vulnerable points, control rooms established for swift information sharing, and drones deployed for aerial surveillance of critical locations and procession routes. Strict monitoring of social media platforms is underway to curb the spread of rumours or inflammatory content.
DIG Mishra urged citizens to remain vigilant and immediately report any suspicious activity to the nearest police control room. “Authorities are closely watching social media and have issued strong warnings against misinformation that could disturb communal harmony,” he added.
On Thursday afternoon, police personnel in Bhadrak organised a motorcycle rally to demonstrate their readiness.
Crime Branch DGP Vinay Tosh Mishra also visited Bhadrak to personally review the security arrangements for Ram Navami Mahayajna Mahotsav and the grand Nagar Sankirtan procession. He inspected the proposed route of procession through the city. He visited all police posts along the route and instructed officials to maintain sharp vigilance at every post. Cyber cells and the State Crime Branch are also conducting comprehensive checks on all types of posts and online content.
The heightened alert followed directives of Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, who chaired a high-level review meeting earlier this week and instructed police to replicate the successful, incident-free celebrations of the previous year through robust deployment and coordination. Focus areas include districts with a history of sensitivity, ensuring devotees can participate without hindrance while prioritising women’s safety and crowd management.
A dry day was also declared in parts of Bhadrak, such as Basudevpur, to support orderly conduct.
