In view of several incidents of communal tension witnessed during the recent Ganesh Puja, the Odisha police have sought at least four companies (more than 400 personnel) of Rapid Action Force (RAF) from the Union Home Ministry for deployment during the forthcoming Durga Puja, which coincides with the Muharram.

“The RAF personnel will be deployed at communally sensitive places of the State,” informed DGP K B Singh here on Thursday, adding that besides mobilising the forces within the State, the State Government has requested the Centre to send the RAF companies before the Durga Puja, which is beginning on October 8.

Holding a videoconference with Range IGs, DIGs, SPs, Police Commissioner and DCPs, the DGP instructed them to remain prepared for any eventuality and to ensure the twin festivals are celebrated peacefully. Director Intelligence Sunil Ray and IG (law and Order) Satyajit Mohanty also interacted with the range and district officials.

The DGP also appealed to the people of all communities to maintain communal harmony during the observance of the twin festivals. He issued a set of advisories to all policemen to tackle tactfully any communal tension or untoward situation during the festivals.

The DGP asked the policemen at the thana level to convene a meeting with the leaders of the Puja Committees and Muharram Committees to see to it that the processions of their respective celebrations are held on separate dates.

Playing of loudspeakers, band and display of firecrackers are done in accordance to Odisha Fireworks and loudspeakers (Regulation) Act of 1958 and the guidelines of the Supreme Court.

Policemen were also been asked to keep strict vigil on the mischief mongers, career criminals and execute if any NBWs pending against anybody and regular drive should be made against storage, distribution and sale of illicit liquor in the State during the festival time.