Cuttack Under Curfew: Violence During Durga Puja Sparks Internet Shutdown

Cuttack Under Curfew: The Odisha government has announced a 36-hour curfew across 13 police station limits in Cuttack after communal clashes erupted during a Durga Puja idol immersion procession. The curfew began at 10 PM on Sunday, affecting key areas like Dargah Bazaar, Mangalabag, Purighat, Lal Bagh, and Jagatpur. The move aims to curb escalating violence and ensure public safety.

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Internet Services Suspended

To prevent the spread of rumors and inflammatory posts, the government suspended internet and social media platforms such as WhatsApp, Facebook, Instagram, X, and Snapchat from 7 PM Sunday to 7 PM Monday. Officials said several provocative messages circulating online were worsening the situation.

How Violence Began

The clashes reportedly started late Friday night near Haathi Pokhari when locals objected to loud music during the immersion procession. The argument soon turned violent, leading to stone-pelting and bottle-throwing from rooftops. Several people were injured, including DCP Khilari Rishikesh Dnyandeo.

Over 25 Injured in Fresh Clashes

Fresh violence broke out on Sunday during a motorcycle rally organized by the Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) despite administrative restrictions. Protesters turned aggressive when stopped by police, leading to stone-pelting, fires, and rubber bullet use. Among the injured were eight police officials.

Fires and Property Damage

Rioters set 8–10 locations on fire near Gourishankar Park, damaging shops and CCTV cameras. Firefighters and police were deployed to bring the situation under control as tensions ran high in the affected neighborhoods.

Massive VHP Rally

Earlier, over 10,000 VHP supporters participated in a rally on Bajrakbati Road, where they allegedly raised communal slogans calling for the removal of a minority community. The rally has been widely criticized for fueling tensions and disturbing peace in the city.

VHP Calls for Bandh

In response to the violence, the VHP announced a 12-hour bandh on Monday, demanding strict action against local authorities accused of negligence. However, the bandh coincides with the curfew, with heavy security deployed to prevent further unrest.

Security Forces on High Alert

To maintain law and order, ten companies of police and Rapid Action Force (RAF) have been stationed across the city. Flag marches were conducted in sensitive zones such as Dargah Bazaar and Mangalabag, while reinforcements are being sent to other high-risk areas.

Leaders Appeal for Calm

Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, along with former CM Naveen Patnaik and Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, has appealed for peace and unity. CM Majhi reiterated that “communal harmony is non-negotiable” and assured strict action against those responsible for the violence.

Police Action and Investigations

Authorities have so far arrested six people linked to the violence and are examining CCTV and drone footage to identify more suspects. The police are also monitoring social media to curb misinformation. Similar internet suspensions were previously enforced in Sambalpur (2023) and Balasore (2024) during communal disturbances.

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