Cuttack, Odisha, witnessed a major breakdown of law and order over the weekend. Following violent clashes linked to a Durga Puja procession and a VHP rally, authorities were forced to step in with emergency measures. The administration imposed a 36-hour curfew and suspended internet services to curb the spread of misinformation and restore peace in the city. Here’s a detailed explainer of what unfolded.
How It Started
The trouble began on Friday, October 3, during a Durga idol immersion procession. A clash broke out when bottles and stones were hurled at the procession. Several police officers, including senior officials, were injured in the violence. Four people were arrested the following day, but tensions did not subside.
Fresh Violence
On October 5, the Vishva Hindu Parishad (VHP) attempted to hold a bike rally in Cuttack despite police denying permission, citing fears of communal flare-ups. When officers blocked the rally from entering sensitive areas, participants began pelting stones at police personnel. The violence left 25 officers injured, eight of them seriously. To disperse the crowd, police resorted to a lathi charge and fired rubber bullets.
Curfew and Restrictions
In response, the Commissioner of Police announced a 36-hour curfew starting from 10 p.m. on Sunday, October 5, across multiple police station limits. Essential services such as healthcare, milk, vegetables, and movement for students and office-goers were exempted. At the same time, the state government suspended internet and social media platforms — including WhatsApp, Facebook, and X — from Sunday evening until Monday evening to prevent the spread of provocative content.
Bandh Call by VHP
The VHP, condemning the police action, announced a 12-hour bandh on Monday, October 6, demanding strict action against those involved in the clashes. It is alleged that attacks on Hindus were repeatedly occurring in one area while the police remained passive.
Government’s Response
Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Majhi urged citizens to remain calm, stressing that Cuttack’s heritage of communal harmony must be preserved. He warned that miscreants would face strict legal consequences. Director General of Police Y. B. Khurania echoed this, stating that all stringent provisions of law would be invoked against troublemakers.
The administration has taken tough measures to prevent escalation, including curfew, internet shutdown, and heavy police deployment. With the bandh and curfew overlapping, Cuttack remains tense, but authorities say the situation is under control for now.
