Bhubaneswar: The issue of security barricade installed in front of former Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik’s residence ‘Naveen Niwas’ in Bhubaneswar has triggered a major administrative and legal review, with indications that the structures may soon be removed or modified.

Works Department seeks police opinion on security barrier near Naveen Niwas

Following strong observations by Orissa High Court over alleged obstruction of public road access, the Works Department has now initiated fresh steps and sought inputs from the Home Department and Commissionerate Police regarding the necessity and continuation of the barricades.

The matter pertains to a petition filed before the High Court alleging that iron barricades placed near the Old Airport Road stretch in Bhubaneswar were obstructing public movement on a road classified as a public thoroughfare. The petitioner Prakash Chandra Das had sought removal of alleged encroachments and restoration of free public access.

Taking note of the petition, the High Court earlier expressed serious displeasure over administrative inaction and directed authorities to conduct a joint field verification and take appropriate action based on findings.

In compliance, a joint inspection was conducted on February 12, 2026, involving officials from the GA&PG Department, Bhubaneswar Municipal Corporation (BMC), Bhubaneswar Development Authority (BDA), Works Department, Bhubaneswar tehsil office, and traffic police.

Joint verification flags security barricade on Old Airport Road stretch

The verification report noted that a portion of land in front of Naveen Niwas, including Plot No. 1071, has been enclosed with iron barricade citing security requirements. It also recorded that parts of the surrounding area remain a public road, while an alternative 100-foot-wide diversion road exists for traffic movement.

The report further highlighted that the diversion road was originally developed for security and traffic management purposes, involving land exchanges between government agencies and the Airports Authority of India.

Following the court’s directive, the Works Department has now written to the Home Department seeking a formal opinion on whether the barricade should be removed, shifted, or retained. The department has also asked for consultations with the Commissionerate Police and DCP Traffic, particularly on security implications.

Authorities are now expected to submit their views shortly, which will determine whether the barricade outside Naveen Niwas remain in place or are dismantled as part of compliance with the High Court’s observations.