Odisha CM Reports 54 Communal Riots in 20 Months, Balasore Leads with 24
Synopsis
In a concerning update, Odisha's CM Mohan Charan Majhi revealed that 54 communal riots have occurred in the state over the last 20 months, with Balasore district alone accounting for 24 of these incidents. This alarming trend highlights the pressing need for communal harmony and proactive governance.
Key Takeaways
54 communal riots reported in Odisha from June 2024 to February 2026.
Balasore district recorded the highest number of incidents with 24 cases.
Khordha district was not far behind with 16 cases .
Seven lynchings reported statewide during this period.
Government efforts include forming peace committees and monitoring community relations.
Bhubaneswar, March 9 (NationPress) A total of 54 instances of communal riots were recorded across various districts in Odisha from June 2024 to February 2026, as stated by Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi on Monday.
Responding to a question posed by BJD MLA Goutam Buddha Das in the state Assembly, CM Majhi disclosed that 24 of these incidents occurred in Balasore district alone, making it the district with the highest concentration of such events during the specified timeframe.
Khordha district has seen 16 cases of communal riots since the BJP came to power in the state. Additionally, the Koraput, Malkangiri, and Bhadrak districts reported eight, four, and two incidents, respectively, over the last 20 months.
Moreover, CM Majhi indicated that there were seven lynching fatalities reported in various regions of the state between June 2024 and late February this year.
The Assembly discussions highlighted that three lynching cases were documented in Rayagada district, which is predominantly tribal, often linked to suspicions of witch-hunting during this period.
Dhenkanal experienced two lynching incidents, while Balasore and Deogarh each reported one case from June 2024 to February 2025.
In his remarks, the Chief Minister emphasized the government's commitment to fostering communal harmony by establishing peace committees at numerous police stations statewide. These committees aim to enhance coordination among diverse communities and work to avert local tensions.
He further instructed local authorities to adopt proactive measures to uphold goodwill among communities.
Majhi also noted that intelligence reports are being meticulously monitored to identify any individuals or groups that might aim to disrupt peace. Authorities are taking preventive and corrective actions based on such insights to maintain law and order.
He concluded by stating that strict legal measures are being enforced against offenders, with cases filed and arrests made as necessary. The government is also implementing awareness initiatives to deter mob violence, including violent acts stemming from witchcraft suspicions.
Point of View
Highlighting the significant number of riots and lynching incidents reported in just over a year and a half. The Chief Minister's focus on maintaining peace through community engagement and legal action underscores the urgency of addressing these societal challenges.
NationPress
5 Aug 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What regions in Odisha experienced the most communal riots?
Balasore district led with 24 communal riots, followed by Khordha with 16 cases, and Koraput, Malkangiri, and Bhadrak with eight, four, and two incidents respectively.
How many lynching incidents were reported in Odisha?
Seven lynching deaths were reported across various districts in Odisha during the mentioned period.
What measures is the Odisha government taking to prevent communal violence?
The government is forming peace committees at police stations and monitoring intelligence inputs to prevent disturbances and maintain communal harmony.
What has been the response of the local administration to communal tensions?
Local administration has been directed to take proactive steps to foster goodwill among communities and ensure law and order.
Are there any awareness programs related to mob violence?
Yes, the government is conducting awareness programs aimed at discouraging mob violence, especially those related to witchcraft suspicions.
