Commissionerate Police have achieved a major breakthrough in the Master Canteen violence case with the arrest of Online Auto Association President Dinabandhu Nayak, who had been absconding since the incident. He was apprehended in Puri.
Nayak allegedly led the violent protest at Master Canteen Square, which left the capital in chaos. Before his arrest, he released a 14‑minute video message apologising to the public, expressing regret, and clarifying that there was no political motive behind the agitation. He claimed drivers were compelled to protest to demand their rights.
Police have maintained a strict approach, seizing 380 vehicles linked to the unrest. So far, 113 persons have been arrested and produced in court, while seven FIRs have been registered at Kharvel Nagar police station.
Authorities also demolished the office of the taxi association involved in the violence using a bulldozer. In addition, 325 show‑cause notices have been issued for permit violations, and 181 e‑challans were served against vehicles lacking mandatory documents such as PUCC, insurance, and fitness certificates.
All seized vehicles have been booked under Section 201 of the Motor Vehicles Act through e‑challans, underscoring the administration’s determination to restore order and accountability.
