Operation Daman: Odisha Police Intensifies Statewide Crackdown Ahead of Festivals

Bhubaneswar, September 22, 2026: Odisha Police has launched a statewide 10-day enforcement campaign named ‘Operation Daman’ to strengthen public safety and prevent criminal activities during the upcoming festive season.

The drive began on September 21 and will continue until September 30, with district police, the Commissionerate Police in Bhubaneswar and Cuttack, special crime units and Railway Police taking part.

According to police, the campaign will focus on habitual offenders and anti-social elements through preventive legal action. Police will also work to execute pending non-bailable warrants (NBWs) against proclaimed offenders.

The operation includes intensified action against the illegal trade of liquor and drugs, with enforcement teams authorised to register relevant excise and NDPS cases, make arrests and seize contraband.

Police will also target illegal firearms, ammunition, weapons and explosives, while cases involving extortion, forced collection of festival donations and gambling will receive special attention.

In vulnerable areas, authorities plan to conduct blocking and border-sealing operations to restrict the movement of criminals. Special measures are also being directed at organised criminal groups and syndicates.

The campaign is being implemented under the direction of in-charge DGP Vinaytosh Mishra. Police units involved in the operation have been asked to submit detailed reports to the Crime Branch by October 10, outlining the action taken during the 10-day drive.

The operation comes after Odisha Police had already stepped up preparations for the festive season, including reviews of crime-prone areas, patrolling, crowd management and traffic arrangements.

Key points:

• Operation Daman runs from September 21–30
• Statewide participation by district, Commissionerate, Railway and specialised police units
• Focus on habitual offenders and proclaimed offenders
• Execution of non-bailable warrants
• Action against drugs, illicit liquor and illegal weapons
• Crackdown on extortion, forced donations and gambling
• Border checks and sealing operations in vulnerable areas
• Reports from participating units due to the Crime Branch by October 10