Sambalpur Communal Violence: No Eid Namaz at Sakhipara Eidgah

Sambalpur: Amid communal violence in Sambalpur, the district administration has decided that there will no mass prayers at Sakhipara Eidgah on Eid-al-Fitar here.

Keeping in view the ongoing curfew and law and order situation in the region, members of the community have agreed not to assemble at the Eidgah for namaz this year.

“Since large gatherings have been prohibited due to the curfew, it was decided not to hold mass congregation on Eid to ensure public order,” said Sambalpur SP B Gangadhar.

Earlier, the district administration extended the suspension of internet services in the violence-hit district for another 48 hours in the district.

A notification issued by the Odisha Home Department states that the prohibitory order will be in effect from 10.00 am April 20 to 10.00 am April 22. However, lease line and broadband services across the Sambalpur District shall remain open from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM during the period.

Meanwhile, in view of the improving situation in the area, the curfew has been relaxed for 11 hours on Thursday to enable people to purchase essential items and allow business transactions during the period. According to Sambalpur SP B Gangadhar, the curfew will be relaxed further in the next couple of days as the situation has improved in the area.