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News India Live, Digital Desk: Odisha Cuttack Clashes: The city of Cuttack in Odisha, known for its peaceful heritage and religious harmony, was shocked by the violence during the immersion of Durga Puja idol last year. A small dispute caught fire that had to impose curfew in many areas of the city, stop internet services and the administration had to take strict measures against the miscreants. This incident once again brought out the challenges of law and order during festivals.
How was the ruckus started?
The incident took place on the night of 4 and 5 October 2024 in Dargha Bazar area of Cuttack. When the Durga Murti immersion procession of Jhanjhiri Mangala Bhagat Pooja Committee was going to Devigada, some local people had objected to playing music in a loud voice. This small debate soon turned into a big controversy and stoned on both sides, which injured many people. These injured include about eight policemen, including the then DCP Rishikesh Khilari of Cuttack. Many vehicles and shops also suffered heavy damage in violence.
On Saturday, after the situation became a bit calm, the tension again erupted on Sunday, 5 October, when a bike rally organized by the Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) was prevented by the police from going to sensitive areas. Despite the lack of police permission, the rally went ahead and when the police tried to stop, the protesters started stone pelting, in which several policemen were again injured. During this time incidents of arson and sabotage also occurred in some places. Police had to use lathicharge and tear gas to control the situation.
Strictness and results of administration
In view of the deteriorating situation, the administration immediately took action. A 36 -hour curfew was imposed in 13 police station areas of Cuttack from 10 pm on Sunday night. These included the main areas like Dargha Bazar, Mangalbagh, Cantonment, Purighat, Lalbagh, Bidanasi, Markat Nagar, CDA Phase 2, Malgodam, Badambari, Jagatpur, Bice Mauja and Sadar Police Station.
Internet services and social media platforms (such as WhatsApp, Facebook, X, Instagram) were suspended for the next 36 hours to prevent rumors and inflammatory messages from spreading.
Six people were arrested by the police in connection with the incident and efforts were on to identify other accused with the help of CCTV footage and drone photographs. After a strong monitoring of heavy police forces and senior officials posted in Cuttack, peace was gradually restored.
