Has the Odisha Government Elevated the NIA Bhubaneswar Branch Office to Police Station Status?
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Synopsis
In a significant move, the Odisha government has recognized the Bhubaneswar branch of the National Investigating Agency as a police station, enhancing its jurisdiction and operational capacity across the state. This decision aims to bolster counter-terrorism efforts in a region vulnerable to various threats.
Key Takeaways
- NIA office in Bhubaneswar designated as a police station.
- Authority granted under Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, 2023.
- Jurisdiction covers the entire state of Odisha.
- Enhances capacity for investigating scheduled offences.
- Strategic measure to strengthen national security.
Bhubaneswar, May 18 (NationPress) The Odisha government has officially recognized the branch office of the National Investigating Agency (NIA) in Bhubaneswar as a police station.
The designation was made through a notification issued by Satyabrata Sahu, the Additional Chief Secretary of the state Home Department.
This notification, released on May 17, empowers the state government under Section 2 (1) (u) of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, 2023 (46 of 2023), officially designating the NIA office in the VSS Nagar area of Bhubaneswar as a police station, with jurisdiction across the entirety of Odisha.
This NIA police station will facilitate the investigation of scheduled offences as stipulated by the National Investigation Agency Act, 2008 (34 of 2008), while also exercising the powers granted under the provisions of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, 2023 (46 of 2023).
The notification from the Odisha Home Department specifies that this order will take effect on the publication date of the notification in the Odisha Gazette.
Located at Vani Vihar (Near Tarini Pitha) in the VSS Nagar area, the NIA office is managed by a Superintendent of Police, In-Charge.
This new status allows the counter-terrorism agency, reporting to the Union Home Ministry, to officially operate as a police station following the state government's designation on May 17.
Odisha is home to many crucial national assets, including the Integrated Test Range (ITR) - Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) at Chandipur, the Ordnance factory at Badmal in Balangir, Paradip Port, and the renowned Jagannath Temple in Puri.
With a coastline measuring 480 km and its proximity to Bangladesh, Odisha is at risk of terrorist activities.
Additionally, there are reports indicating a significant influx of illegal immigration from Bangladesh into Odisha.
Point of View
The elevation of the NIA's Bhubaneswar office to police station status represents a proactive approach in strengthening counter-terrorism measures. This decision is crucial, considering the state's geographical vulnerabilities and the recent challenges posed by illegal immigration. The initiative demonstrates the government's commitment to safeguarding national security while ensuring effective law enforcement.
NationPress
27/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the significance of the NIA office becoming a police station?
This designation allows the NIA to conduct investigations and exercise powers related to scheduled offences more effectively across Odisha.
What prompted the Odisha government to make this decision?
The decision is part of a broader strategy to enhance counter-terrorism efforts in light of Odisha's vulnerabilities to terrorist activities.
When will the new police station status take effect?
The order will take effect on the publication date in the Odisha Gazette.
