Cuttack Violence 2025: The thousand-year-old city of Cuttack, renowned for its communal harmony, remained on edge on Sunday following fresh incidents of violence triggered by clashes during Durga Puja idol immersion earlier in the week. The unrest, reportedly sparked by disputes over loud music during a procession in the Dargah Bazaar area, has led to arrests, a temporary internet shutdown, and appeals for peace from political leaders across the spectrum.
Clash at Dargah Bazaar
According to police and eyewitness reports, violence first erupted between 1:30 am and 2 am on Saturday when a Durga idol immersion procession moving towards the Kathajodi river was blocked by local residents who objected to high-decibel music being played late at night.
The situation escalated quickly, with stones and glass bottles reportedly thrown from rooftops. Several people were injured, including Cuttack’s Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) Khilari Rishikesh Dnyandeo. The police responded with a mild lathi charge to restore order. At least six people have been arrested so far, and authorities are reviewing CCTV, drone, and mobile footage to identify additional participants.
Police Commissioner S Dev Datt Singh confirmed, “Those arrested were involved in stone pelting and were identified through CCTV footage. More arrests will follow.” One individual sustained serious injuries and is currently admitted to SCB Medical College and Hospital, while the DCP is stable.
Tensions Resurface During VHP Rally
Tensions escalated again on Sunday evening when the Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) organized a motorcycle rally, which reportedly violated district administration restrictions. The rally, which began from Bidyadharpur and passed through Dargah Bazaar, ended at Sector 11 in the CDA area.
Authorities reported damage to CCTV cameras along the route, vandalism of shops in the Gourishankar Park area, and some fires. The Commissionerate Police deployed mild force to disperse groups attempting to disturb peace.
Internet Ban and Security Measures
In response to rising tensions, the Odisha government suspended internet services across the Cuttack Municipal Corporation, Cuttack Development Authority (CDA), and 42 adjoining Mauza areas from 7 pm Sunday to 7 pm Monday. Platforms including WhatsApp, Facebook, and Instagram remain blocked to prevent the spread of misinformation.
Police presence has been increased across sensitive areas such as Dargah Bazaar, Gourishankar Park, and Bidyadharpur, with additional Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF) personnel deployed.
Appeals for Peace
Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, who also holds the Home portfolio, expressed regret over the incidents, urging residents to maintain Cuttack’s centuries-old tradition of harmony. “Cuttack is a thousand-year-old city known for unity. Due to the actions of some miscreants, peace has been disturbed in recent days,” he said, assuring strict action against offenders and free medical treatment for the injured.
Former Chief Minister and BJD president Naveen Patnaik also appealed for calm, describing the situation as “deeply concerning” and criticizing the administration’s handling of law and order under the new government.
Political Reactions and Bandh Call
The VHP has announced a 12-hour bandh in Cuttack on Monday, citing administrative failure in ensuring peaceful idol immersion. Meanwhile, the BJD condemned “anti-social elements” attempting to disrupt communal harmony. Congress MLA Sofia Firdous highlighted the city’s long-standing tradition of unity during Durga Puja and called for strict legal action against the offenders.
Law and Order Measures
The Director General of Police (DGP) YB Khurania chaired an emergency review meeting with senior officials. Immersion activities, halted for nearly three hours after Saturday’s violence, resumed under tight police supervision and concluded by 9:30 am Sunday. Approximately 120 idols were eventually immersed without further incident. Prohibitory orders under Section 144 of the CrPC remain in place to prevent public gatherings, with additional security forces stationed at vulnerable locations.
The situation in Cuttack remains sensitive, and authorities continue to monitor developments closely.