Cuttack, a city in Odisha renowned for its centuries-old communal harmony, was shaken by communal tensions after locals objected to high-decibel music during a Durga idol immersion procession, which escalated into clashes.
The initial clash occurred around 1:30 a.m. on Saturday when locals objected to loud music near a dargah, leading to violent confrontations between two groups. Police stated that Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) Rishikesh Khillari and five others were injured, and six individuals were arrested immediately based on CCTV and drone footage.
During the violence, four people sustained injuries, three have been discharged, while the fourth remains in stable condition. An internet shutdown was imposed from October 5 at 7 p.m. to October 7 at 7 p.m. across Cuttack and nearby areas to curb the spread of rumors on platforms such as WhatsApp, X, and Facebook.
Despite police barricades and the deployment of additional forces, a rumor about a death during the procession spread on social media, further inflaming tensions. The Commissionerate Police stated that false narratives were being circulated to incite fear and disrupt communal harmony.
Tensions escalated again on Sunday when police denied permission for a Vishva Hindu Parishad (VHP) bike rally in sensitive areas to prevent further unrest. VHP activists clashed with police, leading to stone-pelting, arson of shops, and vandalism of vehicles. At least 25 people, including 8–10 police personnel and one senior officer, Amarendra Panda (who was admitted to the ICU), were injured.
On Monday, the VHP enforced a 12-hour bandh (shutdown) demanding action against the “culprits” from the initial clash, a high-level probe, and the transfer of police officials. The Hindu right-wing group also held a motorcycle rally through the Muslim-dominated Dargah Bazar area, chanting slogans and waving saffron flags. Around 40 shops were torched, and nine people were arrested in connection with the unrest. Deployment in the city is set to continue ahead of the upcoming Kali Puja.
Police fired tear gas and used force to disperse the mob, after which the state imposed a 36-hour curfew. Speaking to Maktoob, Ali, a resident of Cuttack, said the situation was tense with no movement outside. “This was a case of provocation, which is why we are here. I am scared to go out of the house,” he said.
This story was originally published in maktoobmedia.com. Read the full story here.
