🟡 By| PR Network
Cuttack: Tension gripped Odisha’s Cuttack city late Sunday night after violent clashes broke out during a Durga idol immersion procession. The unrest, triggered reportedly by a dispute over loud music and procession routes, led to stone-pelting, vandalism, and chaos in parts of the Haathi Pokhari and Dargha Bazar areas.
According to police sources, at least 25 people, including several police personnel, were injured in the violence. Law enforcement resorted to lathi-charge and tear gas to bring the situation under control.
🟡 Curfew and Internet Shutdown
To prevent further escalation, the Cuttack administration imposed prohibitory orders under Section 144 in 13 police station areas starting 10 pm Sunday for 36 hours. The state government has also suspended internet and social media services across the Cuttack Municipal Corporation, CDA, and 42 adjoining Mauzas for 24 hours (7 pm Sunday – 7 pm Monday).
Officials said the move aims to prevent the spread of misinformation and maintain peace in the city. Police forces have been deployed across sensitive zones, with CCTV and drone surveillance being used to identify the culprits involved in vandalism and attacks.
🟡 Chief Minister Appeals for Calm
Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi appealed to citizens to maintain peace and communal harmony, assuring that those involved in violence will face strict action.
“No one will be spared if found guilty. Odisha has always stood for peace and brotherhood,” Majhi said in a public statement.
🟡 VHP Calls for 12-Hour Bandh
In response to the clashes, the Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) has announced a 12-hour bandh in Cuttack on Monday, demanding accountability from local authorities for the violence and damages to public and private property.
Shops and commercial establishments in parts of the city remained closed on Monday morning, with police patrolling to ensure compliance with curfew orders and prevent further disturbances.
🟡 Ground Reality
Visuals from the scene show damaged vehicles, shattered shopfronts, and debris-strewn roads in affected areas. Several vendor cabins were also set on fire during the late-night violence. Emergency teams and fire services worked overnight to restore normalcy.
Residents have been advised to stay indoors, avoid gathering in public spaces, and refrain from spreading unverified news on social media.
🟡 Ongoing Investigation
Cuttack Police Commissionerate has begun identifying suspects through video footage and eyewitness reports. Six individuals have been detained for questioning, though officials have not yet confirmed formal arrests. A case has been registered under multiple sections related to rioting, unlawful assembly, and obstruction of public duty.
🟡 Maoist Angle Ruled Out
Meanwhile, security agencies have clarified that the Cuttack unrest has no Maoist connection, though Odisha continues to monitor left-wing extremist activities along border districts after the recent encounter in Chhattisgarh, where two senior Maoist leaders linked to Odisha operations were killed.
🟡 Peace Efforts Continue
Senior police officials and community representatives held meetings Monday morning to restore trust and prevent communal flare-ups. The administration has promised compensation for the injured and damages caused during the unrest.
The situation in Cuttack remains tense but under control as security forces continue patrolling and internet restrictions remain in place.
