IGP Dr Satyajit Nayak Orders Crackdown on Illegal Firecracker Trade; 64 Cases Registered
News Odishabarta
Cuttack: The Central Range Police have intensified their crackdown on the illegal manufacture, storage and sale of firecrackers ahead of Diwali, registering 64 cases across seven districts between November 1 and 3, 2026. Inspector General of Police (IGP), Central Range, Dr Satyajit Nayak, IPS, has issued strict directions to all Superintendents of Police (SPs) under his jurisdiction to take stringent action against illegal firecracker manufacturing units, unauthorised warehouses and unlicensed traders to prevent accidents and safeguard public safety during the festive season. According to a special situation report on the illegal storage of firecrackers and explosive materials, Puri district recorded the highest number of 13 cases, followed by Cuttack and Jagatsinghpur with 12 cases each. Nayagarh reported 10 cases, Kendrapara eight, Jajpur five and Khordha four cases.
The figures reflect enforcement action undertaken across all seven districts of the Central Range.
Dr Nayak has directed district police authorities to constitute special teams and conduct intensive inspections and raids at suspected firecracker manufacturing units, storage facilities, warehouses and sales outlets.
The drive will also cover licensed traders to verify compliance with mandatory fire safety arrangements and statutory regulations. Police have been instructed to identify those manufacturing, storing or selling firecrackers without valid licences and take appropriate legal action against them.
The IGP has emphasised that the illegal handling and storage of explosive materials pose a serious threat to human lives and property, as negligence could lead to devastating fires and explosions. Making it clear that violations will not be tolerated, he has directed officers to maintain strict vigilance throughout the festive period.
The police have also appealed to the public to inform their nearest police stations about suspicious manufacturing units, illegal storage facilities or unauthorised firecracker sales. Dr Nayak stressed that public cooperation and proactive policing are essential to prevent mishaps and ensure a safe, peaceful and incident-free Diwali across the Central Range.
