Authorities imposed curfew in Odisha’s Balasore town after communal clashes flared up following the suspicion of cow slaughter in the area. According to an Indian Express report, while CrPC Section 144 was imposed in some vicinities of the town, later it was decided to impose total curfew to prevent further escalation.

Balasore collector Ashish Thakare said that there were no reports of fresh violence in the area. meanwhile, mobile internet has been suspended in Balasore town to prevent any online rumour-mongering. The IE report further said that Sanjay Kumar, ADGP (law and order) is staying in the town. According to him, as many as 34 people have been arrested from both communities and the number is likely to go up.

The IE report said that initial probe in the case says that the incident took place in north Odisha town. Some residents of the area had alleged that water in a local water body turning red. Suspicion grew that it was “animal blood” due to “slaughtering of cow”.

“The incident triggered clashes between the two communities, resulting in stone pelting. To control the situation, the police resorted to lathi charge,” according to police sources.

Official sources reported that four to five policemen and civilians were injured, and several vehicles were damaged.