The Odisha government late Sunday night imposed a 36-hour curfew across large parts of Cuttack city. This came immediately after authorities suspended all internet and social media services for 24 hours. The twin decisions followed violent clashes between two groups during a Durga Puja idol immersion procession, which turned a festive night into a tense law-and-order situation.
The curfew affects 13 police station areas, including Dargah Bazaar, Mangalabag, Cantonment, and Purighat.The limits, according to the official directive, were required to stop the transmission of “provocative and incendiary information” that would spark more unrest.
Why Was Internet Blocked?
According to an official notification signed by Additional Chief Secretary (Home) Satyabrata Sahu, the internet shutdown order was issued under Section 5(2) of the Indian Telegraph Act, 1885, and Rule 2(1) of the Temporary Suspension of Telecom Services Rules, 2017. The restriction applies to all forms of communication, including broadband, mobile internet, and well-known apps like Instagram, X, and WhatsApp.
This step aimed to prevent misinformation and provocative content from circulating during a sensitive period. The suspension applies to the entire Cuttack Municipal Corporation area, the Cuttack Development Authority region, and 42 Mauza areas.
How Did the Violence Start?
What began as a local celebration turned violent late Friday night in the Dargha Bazaar area. After neighbors protested loud music during the immersion parade, a fight broke out near Haathi Pokhari at 1:30 AM. Within minutes, the argument escalated—stones and glass bottles were allegedly thrown from rooftops, injuring several people, including Cuttack DCP Khilari Rishikesh Dnyandeo.
Police confirmed six arrests and said multiple teams were working to identify others from CCTV and drone footage. “We have formed multiple teams to track down those responsible. More arrests are likely,” said a senior officer involved in the investigation.
What Happened Next?
Fresh tensions broke out again on Sunday afternoon when protesters clashed with the police at Dargah Bazaar. The confrontation left six police officials, including the DCP and the local inspector-in-charge, injured. Some media persons were also caught in the scuffle. Police resorted to a lathi-charge to disperse the mob after demonstrators ignored warnings.
Who Called for the Bandh?
Amid the growing tension, the Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) announced a 12-hour bandh on Monday in Cuttack. A spokesperson for the organization alleged police negligence, saying, “Despite repeated requests, the police failed to control miscreants. We demand immediate action against negligent officials.” However, the bandh now faces restrictions due to the curfew already in effect.
Large-scale deployment of police and Rapid Action Force personnel continues across the city. Security forces are patrolling key intersections, especially in Dargah Bazaar, Mangalabag, and Choudhury Bazaar, to restore normalcy.
What Is the Government’s Stand?
Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi condemned the violence and urged for peace, asserting that “communal harmony is non-negotiable.” He gave law enforcement the order to impose discipline and take tough action against those responsible. By Sunday night, in an effort to boost public trust and discourage criminal activity, flag marches were held through sensitive areas.
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Has Cuttack Faced Similar Situations Before?
This is not the first time Odisha has taken such stringent measures. Following communal unrest, Sambalpur in 2023 and Balasore in 2024 both imposed similar internet bans. These are seen by the authorities as short-term, preventative measures to keep the calm.
Disclaimer: The information presented is based on verified news agency reports and reflects statements by official representatives.
