Following violent clashes during Durga Puja immersion, authorities clamp down with curfews, social media ban and heavy security in Odisha’s Cuttack
Cuttack, Odisha : Monday, October 6, 2025
City under lockdown after violent clashes
The city of Cuttack is on edge after a series of violent clashes erupted late Friday during a Durga Puja idol immersion procession, prompting authorities to impose a 36-hour curfew and suspend internet services to prevent further unrest. The Odisha government has also called for an immediate law and order review, as thousands of residents remain confined indoors amid heavy police deployment.
The violence first broke out in Dargha Bazaar, one of Cuttack’s oldest neighborhoods, when locals reportedly objected to high-decibel music and the timing of the immersion procession. What began as an argument quickly spiraled into stone-pelting, vandalism, and street battles between groups. Police resorted to baton charges and tear gas to disperse the mobs.
At least 25 people were injured, including eight police personnel. Several vehicles and shops were vandalized before authorities moved in to impose prohibitory orders under Section 144 of the CrPC.
Timeline of the unrest
- Friday night: Clashes break out in Dargha Bazaar during the immersion procession.
- Saturday: Violence spreads to nearby localities including Lal Bagh, Mangalabag, and Purighat. Curfew imposed in sensitive zones.
- Sunday: The Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) calls for a bandh demanding action against “anti-social elements.” A bike rally by VHP workers sparks renewed tension.
- Sunday night: Government announces 36-hour curfew from 10 PM in 13 police station areas.
- Monday: Internet and social media services suspended for 24 hours; security tightened across the city.
36-hour curfew and internet suspension
The Cuttack District Administration imposed a 36-hour curfew across 13 police station limits — including Dargha Bazaar, Lal Bagh, Mangalabag, Jagatpur, and Purighat — effective from Sunday night. Essential services such as hospitals, pharmacies, and milk booths have been exempted, but residents are barred from gathering in public or moving in groups.
District Collector Divya Mishra said:
“The situation is under control but tense. Curfew and internet suspension were necessary to prevent rumor-mongering and further provocation. We appeal to citizens to stay calm and cooperate.”
A parallel order from the Home Department directed telecom operators to block internet and social media platforms including WhatsApp, Facebook, and X (formerly Twitter) for 24 hours. Authorities cited viral misinformation as a trigger for panic and retaliatory messages.
The move sparked debate, with civil rights groups questioning the repeated use of internet shutdowns during civic unrest, while officials defended the decision as “temporary and preventive.”
Heavy security deployment across Cuttack
To prevent further violence, more than 25 platoons of police and Rapid Action Force (RAF) have been stationed at key intersections. Drone surveillance has been activated to monitor rooftops and narrow lanes, where initial stone-pelting was reported.
Director General of Police (DGP) Arun Bothra and senior IPS officers from Bhubaneswar have been camping in Cuttack since Sunday morning to coordinate peacekeeping efforts. Local police have also been instructed to carry out flag marches and community meetings to build trust.
Entry of non-residents into central Cuttack areas has been restricted, while major markets such as Choudhury Bazaar, Buxi Bazaar, and Dolamundai remain closed. Railway and bus services continue under partial security supervision.
Political reactions and bandh call
The Vishwa Hindu Parishad and allied organizations observed a 12-hour bandh across the city on Monday, accusing authorities of mishandling the situation.
VHP state secretary Ramesh Chandra Panda told the media:
“Police failed to ensure safe passage for the Durga immersion procession. The administration is biased and incompetent. We demand justice for those injured.”
In contrast, the Odisha government condemned the bandh as “unnecessary” and appealed for restraint. Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi released a statement saying:
Opposition parties, including the Biju Janata Dal (BJD) and Congress, criticized the government’s “delayed reaction” and alleged that intelligence warnings were ignored despite repeated appeals from local committees to change procession routes.
Ground situation and public sentiment
By Monday morning, large parts of Cuttack wore a deserted look. Streets that were bustling with Durga Puja celebrations only a week earlier stood empty. Residents in affected areas remained indoors, and schools and colleges announced temporary closures.
In Dargha Bazaar, residents complained of property damage and fear. “We haven’t stepped outside since Saturday. Police are patrolling, but the tension is still there,” said Shabnam Ali, a local shopkeeper.
Religious leaders from both communities have appealed for calm, urging the public to reject rumors and “maintain Cuttack’s historic spirit of unity.”
Meanwhile, social media users across Odisha posted messages of peace, using hashtags like #PrayForCuttack and #UnitedOdisha to counter online hate.
Law enforcement and investigation
Police have so far detained over 60 suspects for their alleged involvement in the clashes. CCTV footage from the area is being analyzed to identify individuals responsible for stone-pelting and arson.
Officials confirmed that no fatalities have been reported, though the number of injured remains under assessment. Compensation announcements for affected households and traders are expected once normalcy is restored.
The administration has also ordered a magisterial inquiry into the cause of the clashes, and the Home Department is considering forming a special peace committee comprising community elders and youth representatives to rebuild harmony.
Looking ahead: The road to peace
While police assert that the situation is “largely under control,” the road to normalcy will depend on how quickly trust can be rebuilt between communities. The immediate priorities include:
- Restoring communication: Gradual restoration of internet and social media once peace is ensured.
- Reopening essential services: Allowing markets, transport, and schools to resume normal functioning.
- Community engagement: Holding peace meetings and reconciliation drives in affected wards.
- Transparency: Regular press briefings to dispel rumors and misinformation.
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