Bhubaneswar, August 20: The Commissionerate Police has launched a major crackdown following violent incidents during a protest by online auto-rickshaw drivers at Master Canteen Square in Bhubaneswar.
The protest turned violent, with demonstrators allegedly blocking roads, vandalising property and attacking police personnel. Police have so far arrested 113 people in connection with the incidents, while more arrests are expected.
The accused have been booked under various provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), including Section 126 for wrongful restraint, Section 115 for voluntarily causing hurt and Section 109 for attempted murder. Provisions of the Prevention of Damage to Public Property (PDPP) Act have also been invoked for alleged damage to government property.
As part of the crackdown, police have seized 354 auto-rickshaws allegedly linked to the protesters. The seized vehicles have been kept at the Reserve Police Ground in Jayadev Vihar.
Meanwhile, the Transport Department is considering cancellation of permits of around 400 vehicles allegedly involved in unlawful activities. Notices will be issued to the respective vehicle owners, following which the process for cancellation of permits will be initiated.
Authorities have indicated that further arrests and action against those involved in the violence may follow.