A tense situation unfolded on Friday as hundreds of locals staged protests demanding the construction of an underpass on National Highway 53 near Shilipur. The agitation escalated into a clash between police and protesters, prompting authorities to impose prohibitory orders under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita.
According to sources, residents had been demonstrating and blocking traffic on the highway for the past two days, pressing for an underpass and road expansion on the Chandikhole–Paradeep stretch of NH-53. The situation worsened after police detained six protesters, triggering widespread anger among locals.
In response, hundreds of residents — including women — gheraoed the Marshaghai Police Station, demanding the immediate release of the detained individuals.
As police attempted to disperse the crowd, a scuffle broke out, leading to injuries among some police personnel. With the situation turning volatile, authorities imposed Section 163 at the protest site to prevent further escalation and maintain law and order.
The protesters have been demanding an underpass and road widening at Shilipur, citing frequent traffic disruptions and safety risks for villagers crossing the busy highway. The issue has been simmering for months, residents claimed.
Kendrapada Sub-Divisional Police Officer Jyoti Ranjan Gouda said the situation was now under control.
“Some men and women had come to the Marshaghai Police Station over yesterday’s incident. They opposed the detention of a few persons by police over a prolonged road blockade. Let them submit their complaints in writing. We will forward the memorandum to higher authorities,” Gouda told mediapersons.
He added:
“The law and order situation is normal at present. Section 163 has been imposed, and the public has been requested to vacate the agitation site. Appropriate action will be taken if necessary.”
