Bhubaneswar, Aug. 21 (UDN): Days after the violent unrest at Master Canteen Square disrupted normal life in the Odisha capital, Online Auto Association President Dinabandhu Nayak has issued a public apology, expressing regret over the incident in a video message released on Thursday.

In the nearly 14-minute video, Nayak said he was saddened by the hardship caused to commuters and residents during the protest and offered an unconditional apology to the public. He also asserted that the agitation was not politically motivated, claiming that the drivers had taken to the streets after their demands remained unresolved.

Crackdown continues

Even as the apology surfaced, police intensified their action against those allegedly involved in the violence. According to official figures, 113 people have been arrested, 354 vehicles have been seized, and seven FIRs have been registered at Kharavel Nagar Police Station in connection with the clashes.

The Transport Department has also initiated action against vehicle owners by issuing show-cause notices, asking them to explain why their vehicle permits and registration certificates should not be cancelled.

Nayak still absconding

Despite releasing the public statement, Nayak remains absconding, and police teams are continuing raids at multiple locations to trace him.

The Master Canteen violence had led to major traffic disruptions and sparked concerns over public safety and law and order in Bhubaneswar. Nayak’s apology is the first official response from the Online Auto Association since the unrest, even as the investigation into the incident continues.