Bhubaneswar: Odisha DGP (in-charge) Vinaytosh Mishra, a 1993-batch IPS officer of the Odisha cadre, has directed district police chiefs to adopt a zero-tolerance approach towards forcible collection of ‘chanda’ or festival donations ahead of the upcoming festive season.
Mishra directed police stations across the state to take proactive measures against coercive fundraising and register cases promptly wherever violations are reported. He also urged citizens to approach the police without hesitation if they face intimidation or pressure to make such payments.
Police to Intensify Monitoring
District police chiefs have been asked to strengthen surveillance in areas where complaints of forced collections are more likely during major festivals.
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Police will focus on:
- Highways and major transport routes
- Busy marketplaces and commercial areas
- Transport hubs
- Tourist destinations
- Other vulnerable locations
Special anti-extortion teams may also be formed at the district level to respond to complaints and prevent coercive collections.
Voluntary Donations Allowed, Coercion Not
The police directive distinguishes between voluntary contributions and collections made through intimidation or pressure.
“Forced collection of ‘chanda’ is a criminal offense and will not be tolerated under any circumstances. All police stations have been directed to take immediate action wherever such incidents are reported. Citizens should come forward and inform the police without hesitation,” Mishra said.
Officials have indicated that festival organisers collecting donations voluntarily and with the consent of contributors have no reason for concern. However, threats, obstructing vehicles, intimidation or forcing people to pay in the name of religious celebrations could invite legal action.
Vigilance Ahead of Major Festivals
The crackdown comes ahead of a festive period that includes Ganesh Puja, Dussehra, Laxmi Puja and Kali Puja in Odisha. Police officials have been asked to maintain heightened vigilance to prevent extortion and ensure that residents, traders, transport operators and tourists are not harassed.
The latest direction also comes against the backdrop of broader instructions to Odisha Police to strengthen security and take stringent action against anti-social elements involved in extortion during the festive season.
