Cuttack, Odisha: The historic city of Cuttack has been placed under a 36-hour curfew and internet suspension after violent clashes broke out during a Durga Puja idol immersion procession late Friday night. The Odisha government and local administration have taken strict measures to control the escalating situation and prevent the spread of misinformation.
According to police sources, the unrest began in the Dargah Bazaar area when some locals objected to loud music being played during a late-night immersion procession. The argument quickly turned violent, with incidents of stone-pelting and bottle-throwing reported. Several individuals, including Deputy Commissioner of Police Khilari Rishikesh Dnyandeo, sustained injuries in the chaos.
Authorities imposed a curfew across 13 police station limits from 10 pm on Sunday, affecting major localities such as Dargah Bazaar, Mangalabag, Purighat, Lal Bagh, and Jagatpur. Residents have been asked to remain indoors, and all public gatherings have been banned under Section 144 of the CrPC.
Internet Services Suspended Across Cuttack
The state government also ordered a complete internet shutdown from 7 pm Sunday to 7 pm Monday across the Cuttack Municipal Corporation, Cuttack Development Authority (CDA), and the adjoining 42 Mauza region.
Officials said the move was necessary to curb the spread of inflammatory messages and fake news on platforms such as WhatsApp, Facebook, Instagram, and X (formerly Twitter). “The internet ban will help prevent rumor-mongering and protect communal harmony,” said Police Commissioner S. Dev Datt Singh.
Security forces, including ten companies of police and Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF), have been deployed throughout the city. Flag marches were conducted in sensitive areas to maintain law and order.
Fresh Violence During VHP Rally
Tensions flared again on Sunday when a motorcycle rally organized by the Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) defied administrative restrictions and passed through sensitive localities. The rally, which began at Bidyadharpur and moved through Dargah Bazaar, led to renewed stone-pelting incidents and vandalism.
According to reports, shops were set ablaze near Gourishankar Park, and several CCTV cameras were damaged. The police had to resort to mild lathi charge and tear gas to disperse the crowd.
At least 25 people, including eight police officers, were injured in the clashes. One person remains in critical condition at SCB Medical College and Hospital, officials confirmed.
Political Leaders Appeal for Calm
Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, who also holds the Home portfolio, appealed to the people to remain calm and maintain peace. “Cuttack is a city known for its unity and communal harmony. Due to the actions of some miscreants, peace has been disturbed. The government will take strict action against those responsible,” the CM said.
Former Chief Minister and BJD president Naveen Patnaik also urged restraint, calling the violence “deeply concerning.” He accused the ruling administration of “failing to ensure law and order” and demanded accountability from senior police officials.
Meanwhile, Congress MLA Sofia Firdous expressed grief over the situation and emphasized the importance of preserving Cuttack’s centuries-old tradition of unity during Durga Puja, which has been celebrated for over 500 years in the city.
VHP Announces 12-Hour Bandh
The Vishwa Hindu Parishad has called for a 12-hour bandh in Cuttack on Monday, blaming administrative lapses for the unrest. “The authorities failed to ensure peaceful immersion despite repeated warnings,” said a VHP spokesperson, demanding the transfer of the DCP and district collector.
The bandh coincides with the ongoing curfew, and heavy police presence has been deployed to prevent further violence. Shops, schools, and offices will remain closed until the situation stabilizes.
Government on High Alert
The Director General of Police (DGP) YB Khurania held an emergency meeting with senior officers to assess the situation. The Home Department is providing continuous updates to the Chief Minister’s Office.
Immersion activities that were suspended for several hours resumed under tight police supervision and concluded peacefully on Sunday morning. Over 120 Durga idols were immersed without further disturbances.
As the curfew and internet ban continue, residents of Cuttack hope for a swift return to normalcy in the city that has long been a symbol of cultural coexistence and brotherhood.
