Bhubaneswar, Aug 11: The administration on Tuesday imposed restrictions under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS) in and around the Banki-Dampada block office area following apprehensions of a confrontation between supporters of Banki MLA Devi Ranjan Tripathy and BJP leader Bulu Chakraborty.

The preventive measure was taken as supporters of both groups were expected to gather near the block office and stage protests, raising concerns over a possible deterioration in the law-and-order situation. Additional police personnel were deployed in the area, while supporters of both sides were advised against assembling or organising protests near the office.

Tension had reportedly been prevailing in the area since Monday following a face-off between supporters of the two groups. The dispute reportedly originated a few days ago when BJP leader Bulu Chakraborty visited the block office and questioned officials over the alleged lack of development work in the area.

Following his visit, supporters of MLA Devi Ranjan Tripathy reportedly reached the spot, resulting in a heated exchange between the two groups. Police intervened and brought the situation under control.

With both sides reportedly planning demonstrations on Tuesday, the administration imposed Section 163 as a precautionary measure. Security has been tightened, and police are closely monitoring the situation to prevent any escalation and maintain peace in Banki-Dampada.

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