Bhubaneswar, March 27 Devotees across Odisha, including the Jagannath temple in Puri, flocked to temples on Friday for Ram Navami, amidst stringent security measures.
Surveillance was intensified across the state, particularly in the districts of Balasore, Bhadrak, Cuttack, and Sambalpur, which had experienced previous incidents, officials said.
Quick response teams were stationed in sensitive areas, and drones and CCTV cameras were deployed to monitor processions and gatherings, they added.
In Cuttack, where clashes had occurred during last year's Dussehra celebrations, over 30 platoons of police forces, along with CRPF personnel, were deployed.
Over 300 CCTV cameras were installed across key routes, marketplaces, and congregation points, officials said.
Security personnel conducted flag marches in areas such as Dargha Bazar, Choudhury Bazaar, Dolamundai, and Buxi Bazaar to instill confidence among residents, they said.
"We have ensured robust law and order mechanisms, efficient traffic management, and effective crowd control measures during the festival. Officers are vigilant and taking proactive steps to prevent any untoward incidents," said IGP (Central Range) Satyajit Naik.
DIG (Eastern Range) Pinak Mishra said that Bhadrak and Balasore had been identified as sensitive districts.
Over 40 platoons, along with CAPFs, were deployed in Bhadrak, with close monitoring of social media platforms and regular flag marches in place, he said.
Governor Hari Babu Kambhampati, Chief Minister Majhi, and Leader of Opposition Naveen Patnaik extended greetings to the people on the occasion.
The governor urged people to follow the ideals of truth, righteousness, and compassion exemplified by Lord Ram, wishing everyone a peaceful and meaningful Ram Navami.