Cuttack, Odisha: Curfew Imposed Following Communal Clashes
Fresh communal tensions erupted in Cuttack, Odisha, on Sunday after police denied permission for a bike rally organized by a local group. The situation escalated into violent clashes that involved stone pelting and arson, resulting in injuries to at least 25 individuals, including eight police personnel. In response to the unrest, authorities imposed a 36-hour curfew and suspended internet services to prevent further incidents, as rioters set fire to multiple locations throughout the day.
The atmosphere in Cuttack remains highly charged, with demonstrators occupying major streets and calling for a Cuttack Bandh on Monday. During the protests, some participants raised provocative slogans advocating for an “exclusive Hindu-only identity” for the city.
Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi expressed deep concerns over the clashes, urging citizens to uphold peace and order. “Cuttack, with its rich thousand-year history, stands as a testament to unity and brotherhood. However, recent disruptions have affected the daily lives of ordinary people. The government is monitoring the situation closely and will take strict action against the troublemakers,” Majhi stated.
Origins of the Clashes
The violence in Cuttack was triggered by a series of incidents linked to the Durga idol immersion procession that took place late Friday night. Tensions first arose around 2 AM on Saturday as the Jhanjirimangala Bhagabat Puja Committee’s procession proceeded toward Debigada. Local residents reportedly objected to the loud music, leading to heated arguments and eventually escalating to stone and bottle-throwing incidents near Dargah Bazar Jail Road. The police resorted to a lathi-charge to disperse the crowd, resulting in injuries to multiple individuals, including Deputy Commissioner of Police Rishikesh Khilari.
In anticipation of potential unrest, police heighted security throughout the city. On Sunday, an organization applied for a permit to hold a bike rally, which was denied due to the fragile atmosphere. Some members of the group attempted to proceed with the rally anyway, resulting in renewed confrontations with police. The clash saw further stone pelting and injuries among law enforcement, prompting authorities to use force to disperse the crowd and impose curfews.
Curfew and Internet Suspension
In the wake of the clashes, officials enacted a 36-hour curfew and suspended internet services for 24 hours to restore order. Cuttack District Magistrate Dattatraya Bhausaheb Shinde confirmed the measures, stating, “The situation is currently under control, but we have seen issues arise. Additional police forces are being deployed.” He emphasized the government’s commitment to maintaining communal harmony in Cuttack.
Officials dismissed rumors circulating on social media regarding a death linked to the earlier incidents, asserting that all injuries were minor and that those spreading misinformation would face consequences.
Social Media Ban
In a further attempt to control the situation, the state government suspended access to internet and social media services in affected areas until 7 PM on Monday. This order was issued under prevailing laws governing public safety, in light of escalating tensions.
Continued Violence
Despite ongoing security efforts, further outbreaks of violence were reported, including the setting of fires in the Gouri Shankar Park area. Local firefighters and police faced assaults from rioters attempting to maintain order. Odisha’s Director-General of Police, Yogesh Bahadur Khurania, reassured the public that law enforcement was closely monitoring the situation and urged residents not to believe rumors.
Response from Political Leaders
The growing unrest prompted reactions from various political leaders, including former Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik, who urged the community to restore calm and harmony. Local representatives described the violence as regrettable, highlighting the importance of unity and cooperation in Cuttack’s diverse community.
“Patience and commitment are crucial to returning to normalcy. Cuttack has always symbolized unity, and it’s vital we work together to ensure that this incident does not divide us,” urged MLA Sofia Firdous.
Authorities have vowed to ensure justice for those involved in the violence as the situation continues to develop.
