54 communal riots, 7 mob lynching cases reported in Odisha since June 2024: CM

As many as 54 communal riot incidents and seven cases of mob lynching were reported in Odisha between June 2024 and February 2026 , Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi informed the State Assembly on Monday.

The data was shared in a written reply to a question raised by BJD legislator Goutam Buddha Das . The period coincides with the tenure of the BJP government, which assumed office in Odisha on June 12, 2024.

According to the Chief Minister, communal incidents were reported from five districts Balasore, Khurda, Koraput, Malkangiri and Bhadrak . Police have arrested 298 people in connection with these riot cases during the 20-month period.

Among the districts, Balasore reported the highest number with 24 incidents , leading to the arrest of 95 people . Khurda recorded 16 incidents , with 120 persons taken into custody . In Koraput , eight riot-related cases were registered and 33 individuals were arrested , while four incidents in Malkangiri led to 26 arrests . Bhadrak reported two cases , resulting in 24 arrests , the chief minister stated.

The Assembly was also informed that seven mob lynching cases were registered across four districts , with 61 people arrested . Rayagada reported three such incidents , leading to 48 arrests , while Dhenkanal registered two cases , though no arrests have been made so far. One case each was recorded in Deogarh and Balasore , resulting in six and seven arrests respectively .

Some of the lynching incidents were linked to suspicions of witchcraft , a recurring social issue in parts of the state. Officials said several lives were lost in these attacks , prompting authorities to step up preventive measures.

The chief minister said the government has formed peace committees at police station levels, intensified intelligence gathering, and launched awareness campaigns to curb mob violence and maintain communal harmony. He added that strict legal action is being taken against those involved in riots and lynching incidents to prevent further disturbances.