Controversial Statements by Bhubaneswar ACP Ignite Outrage Amid Puri Rath Yatra Protests

In a shocking incident that has gripped public attention, the Assistant Commissioner of police (ACP) in Bhubaneswar made highly controversial remarks regarding the treatment of protesters during a demonstration against the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) government. The protests were sparked by the tragic death of devotees during the Puri Rath Yatra stampede, an event that has since raised serious concerns about crowd management and safety protocols.

Background of the Incident

The Puri Rath Yatra, a significant religious festival in Odisha, attracts thousands of devotees each year. However, this year’s event turned tragic when a stampede resulted in the loss of life and injuries to many participants. In response to the incident, protesters took to the streets, voicing their grievances against the government and demanding accountability for the mishap.

ACP’s Controversial Remarks

During the protests, the Bhubaneswar ACP allegedly issued a statement that has sparked outrage across social media and among the public at large. The ACP reportedly instructed law enforcement personnel not to apprehend the protesters but instead to "break their legs." Furthermore, he offered a reward to anyone who acted on this directive, which many perceive as an incitement to violence and an abuse of power.

This statement has raised significant ethical and legal questions regarding the role of law enforcement in handling protests, particularly those centered around a tragic event. Critics argue that such remarks undermine the principles of democracy and the right to peaceful assembly.

Public Reaction and Outcry

The ACP’s comments have not only drawn condemnation from the public but also from various political leaders and human rights organizations. Many have taken to social media platforms, including Twitter, to express their outrage and demand accountability from the authorities. The hashtag #PuriRathYatra has been trending, as users share their thoughts on the government’s handling of the situation and call for justice for the victims of the stampede.

Civil rights activists have labeled the ACP’s remarks as a blatant violation of human rights and an indication of a broader trend of authoritarianism in policing. They argue that such rhetoric is dangerous and sets a precedent for the use of excessive force against citizens exercising their right to protest.

Government’s Response

In light of the public outcry, local government officials have been urged to respond to the situation promptly. Many citizens are calling for an inquiry into the ACP’s statements and the broader policing tactics employed during the protests. The government’s handling of this incident will be closely scrutinized, as it could have lasting implications for public trust and safety in future gatherings.

The Broader Implications

This incident is emblematic of a larger issue concerning police conduct during protests in India. As public demonstrations become more frequent, the question of how law enforcement engages with citizens during such events is increasingly relevant. The balance between maintaining public order and respecting individual rights is delicate, and many believe that incidents like this highlight the need for reform in policing practices.

Furthermore, the tragic events of the Puri Rath Yatra stampede have raised questions about the adequacy of safety measures in place during large public gatherings. As the investigation into the stampede continues, there is a pressing need for a thorough review of crowd management strategies to prevent similar tragedies in the future.

Conclusion

The remarks made by the Bhubaneswar ACP have ignited a firestorm of criticism and concern regarding police conduct and the treatment of protesters in India. As the public continues to demand accountability and justice for the victims of the Puri Rath Yatra stampede, it remains to be seen how the government will address these pressing issues.

The incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of upholding democratic values, including the right to protest, and the need for responsible governance that prioritizes the safety and rights of all citizens. As the situation unfolds, it will be crucial for both the government and law enforcement agencies to reflect on their actions and ensure that such incidents do not recur in the future.

In a democratic society, the voices of the people must be heard, and their grievances must be addressed respectfully and constructively. Only through dialogue and accountability can trust be rebuilt and the foundation of democracy strengthened.

This’s not border area, BJP-CM house

“DON’T CAUGHT, BREAK ITS LEG, Whoever breaks, come to me and receive reward”

Bhubaneswar ACP orders breaking the legs of protesters who protested against @BJP4Odisha Govt for death of devotees in #stampede during #PuriRathYatra#Orissa pic.twitter.com/KpD7PnM3fU

— Taj INDIA (@taj_india007) July 1, 2025

This’s not border area, BJP-CM House

In recent events that have sparked outrage and concern, a statement made by an officer in Bhubaneswar has caught the attention of many. The ACP (Assistant Commissioner of Police) made headlines with a rather shocking declaration: “DON’T CAUGHT, BREAK ITS LEG, Whoever breaks, come to me and receive reward.” This statement was directed towards those protesting against the @BJP4Odisha government following a tragic incident that resulted in the death of devotees during the #stampede at the #PuriRathYatra.

Understanding the Context: What Happened During the Puri Rath Yatra?

The Puri Rath Yatra is one of the most significant festivals in India, especially for devotees of Lord Jagannath. Held annually in Puri, Odisha, this grand event attracts millions of devotees and tourists. However, during the 2025 Rath Yatra, a tragic stampede occurred, leading to multiple casualties. The incident raised serious questions about crowd management and safety protocols at such large-scale events.

The outrage following the stampede was palpable. Many people took to the streets to protest against the government, demanding accountability for the tragic loss of life. This is where the ACP’s controversial statement comes into play. Instead of addressing the concerns of the protesters, the ACP’s words seemed to incite violence against them, which is highly concerning for a law enforcement officer.

Bhubaneswar ACP’s Controversial Statement

The ACP’s declaration, “DON’T CAUGHT, BREAK ITS LEG, Whoever breaks, come to me and receive reward,” raises significant ethical questions. It suggests a blatant disregard for the rights of citizens to peacefully protest. The statement has been perceived not just as reckless, but as a call to violence against those who are simply expressing their grief and frustration over the tragedy.

In a democracy, the right to protest is fundamental. It allows citizens to voice their concerns and hold their government accountable. When law enforcement officers make statements that encourage violence against protesters, it undermines this right and can lead to further unrest.

The Reaction from the Public and Officials

Social media erupted with reactions to the ACP’s statement. Many expressed their disbelief and anger, questioning how someone in a position of authority could advocate for violence. Prominent voices in the community and various human rights organizations condemned the remarks, calling for accountability and a re-evaluation of the ACP’s position.

Officials from the @BJP4Odisha government faced pressure to respond to the situation. They were urged to clarify their stance on the rights of protesters and the actions of their police force. Many citizens expressed that the government must take responsibility for both the tragedy of the stampede and the subsequent handling of protests.

Implications for Law Enforcement and Governance in Odisha

The incident and the ACP’s statement highlight a disturbing trend in how law enforcement may be perceiving their role in governance. When police officers begin to view protesters as enemies rather than citizens exercising their rights, the very fabric of democracy begins to fray. It raises critical questions about the training and oversight of law enforcement agencies in Odisha and across India.

Moreover, this situation could lead to a chilling effect on future protests. People may hesitate to voice their concerns for fear of violence against them. This is particularly concerning in a country with a rich history of peaceful protests and civic engagement.

Calls for Accountability and Change

The aftermath of this incident has seen calls for accountability from both the police department and the government. Activists and community leaders are demanding a thorough investigation into the ACP’s remarks and the broader handling of the protests. They argue that there should be clear policies in place to protect the rights of citizens, especially during sensitive situations following tragedies.

Additionally, there are calls for reforms in crowd management practices during significant events like the Puri Rath Yatra. Ensuring the safety of devotees should always be a top priority, and the government must learn from this tragedy to prevent future incidents.

Conclusion: The Future of Protests in India

The events surrounding the Puri Rath Yatra stampede and the subsequent ACP statement serve as a stark reminder of the challenges facing democracy in India today. As citizens, it’s essential to remain vigilant and advocate for our rights, ensuring that our voices are heard and respected. The ability to protest peacefully is a cornerstone of democracy, and it must not be compromised.

As we look ahead, let’s hope that the government takes the necessary steps to address these concerns, fostering an environment where citizens can express their grievances without fear of violence or repression. In doing so, we can honor the memories of those who lost their lives during the stampede and work towards a safer, more just society for all.