Odisha: Internet services suspended, Section 144 imposed in Joda after communal clash

KEONJHAR: Tension mounted in Joda town in Odisha after clashes between two communities took place on Monday afternoon, resulting in injuries to police and civilians.
Internet services have been suspended and the local administration has imposed section 144 in Joda town to tackle the situation.
Sources said that on Monday, a procession with Ram Jhanda was not allowed to go from Joda town to Kailash Nagar through Azad Basti due to the protest by locals.Angry devotees staged a dharna blocking the road.
A police force was deployed in the town to control the situation. Superintendent of Police, Keonjhar along with force went to the spot after the situation became worse.
"The situation is under control and section 144 imposed in Joda town. Nine platoon forces have been deployed in the area. Discussion with local people is going on to maintain peace. After investigation, the cause of the incident could be said in detail," Mitrabhanu Mohapatra, SP Keonjhar said.
According to sources, things worsened when some people from another community came to the place and started abusing. The situation became worse when they attacked and hurled stones. In the clash, several vehicles and shops have been damaged.