In a significant move to bolster public safety, particularly for women, the Odisha Police have ramped up night-time security measures across the state. This decision comes in the wake of rising concerns over criminal activities and the recent legislative change permitting women to work night shifts.
New Law Prompts Security Overhaul
The catalyst for this intensified vigil is the passage of the Odisha Shops and Commercial Establishments (Amendment) Bill, 2025, by the state assembly. This new law formally allows women to work during night hours. A senior police officer stated that while instructions for enhanced night blockades were recently issued, the security apparatus will be fully revamped once the amended Act is implemented to specifically safeguard women working late.
The directive also aligns with a seasonal surge in tourism. With an increased influx of both domestic and international tourists visiting Odisha's heritage sites and winter festivals, police aim to use visible enforcement as a dual-purpose tool. It is designed to deter potential offenders while simultaneously building confidence among visitors.
Strategic Night Operations Detailed
Under the new plan, police stations have been mandated to conduct frequent 'naka' (checkpoint) checks during the night. These blockades are being set up at key junctions, highways, and other strategic locations. The focus is on maintaining a robust police presence in areas with high footfall, such as marketplaces, tourist hubs like Puri and Konark, and major transport corridors.
Police authorities have identified the period between midnight and dawn as a vulnerable window when their presence traditionally thins out. To counter this, a structured plan has been devised, mandating checkpoints and random vehicle checks specifically from 1 am to 5 am. "We are establishing checkpoints after midnight at strategic locations. Officers have been directed to enhance their visibility on the roads," explained a senior officer.
Broader Crime Control and Community Role
The scope of these intensified night operations extends beyond general safety. The police aim to curb a spectrum of offences including drug trafficking, drunken driving, vehicle theft, and the movement of anti-social elements. Puri Superintendent of Police, Prateek Singh, emphasized that night security has been strengthened in the district to protect both citizens and tourists.
"Our personnel are more visible during late hours to prevent untoward incidents. The initiative is expected to reduce thefts, snatching, and other street crimes," Singh said. He added that this enhanced vigilance will continue throughout the peak tourism season, with special monitoring in Puri, Konark, and Satapada. "Our goal is clear — safety first. We want every visitor and citizen to feel secure while enjoying Odisha’s beauty," he affirmed.
The police have also made a public appeal, urging citizens to cooperate during night 'naka' checks and to promptly report any suspicious activities. They underlined that community participation remains a vital pillar for effective and responsive policing.
