Tensions flared in Odisha’s Cuttack city during a Durga idol immersion procession on Saturday night. The incident began in the Dargah Bazaar area when some locals objected to loud music playing late. The immersion procession, headed toward Kathajodi river, was halted around 1:30 am by agitated residents. The disagreement quickly escalated as both sides hurled stones and glass bottles at each other. Police intervened and used mild lathi charge to disperse the crowd and restore order. Deputy Commissioner of Police Rishikesh Dnyandeo was among those injured during the confrontation. Six people have been arrested so far, and more arrests are expected. CCTV, drone, and mobile footage are being reviewed to identify those involved in violence.
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Odisha’s Clashes Break Out During Durga Immersion in Cuttack
In response to the escalating tension, the Cuttack administration imposed a 36-hour curfew across key areas. The curfew covers Dargah Bazaar, CDA, 42 Mauza, and other vulnerable parts of the city. Authorities also suspended internet services from Sunday evening to Monday night to control fake news. WhatsApp, Instagram, Facebook, and other platforms were blocked to prevent inflammatory content from circulating online. The move aimed to contain potential provocations and avoid further communal flare-ups. Only essential services like hospitals and emergency aid were allowed to function during the curfew. Police presence was intensified with checkpoints and patrolling in sensitive zones like Bidyadharpur and Gourishankar Park.
Despite curfew orders, the Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) held a motorcycle rally on Sunday evening. The rally passed through Dargah Bazaar — the same area where earlier violence broke out. Officials said the rally did not have permission and defied administrative restrictions in place. During the rally, CCTV cameras were broken, and shops were vandalized in Gourishankar Park. Some stores were reportedly set on fire, triggering further panic in the area. Police used controlled force to disperse the mob and prevent further destruction. Section 144 was enforced to restrict public gatherings and control crowd movement.
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Injuries and Arrests Mount as Security Tightens
At least 25 people, including police personnel, were injured in the ongoing clashes. One individual sustained serious injuries and was admitted to SCB Medical College. The DCP’s condition is stable, and medical teams are monitoring all affected individuals. Police have so far arrested six people, with more arrests expected after video analysis. Law enforcement is identifying stone-pelters and vandals from drone and CCTV footage. Additional medical assistance and compensation are being arranged for all injured persons. Police stations across Cuttack remain on high alert, especially near religious or high-footfall areas.
Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi expressed deep concern and urged people to uphold Cuttack’s communal harmony. He assured strict legal action against those responsible for disturbing the city’s peace. The Chief Minister also instructed free medical treatment for those injured in the violence. Former CM Naveen Patnaik also condemned the violence and accused the current administration of mishandling law and order. Patnaik criticized the police response and said Cuttack’s heritage of brotherhood must not be destroyed. Meanwhile, the VHP called for a 12-hour bandh in Cuttack on Monday, demanding suspension of senior officials. Congress MLA Sofia Firdous condemned the violence and called for action against those disrupting religious unity.
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