Cuttack Violence: Idol Immersion Turns Violent, 25 Injured, Internet Suspended, Curfew Imposed Tension gripped Cuttack after a Durga Puja immersion procession turned violent in the Dargah Bazaar area in the early hours of Saturday. A dispute over high-decibel music escalated into stone pelting, arson, and vandalism. At least 25 people, including senior police officials such as DCP Rishikesh Khilari, were injured in the clashes. In response, the Odisha government imposed a 36-hour curfew in 13 police station areas of the city and suspended internet and social media services for 24 hours to prevent the spread of misinformation. Over 1,800 security personnel, including Odisha Police, CRPF, and RAF, were deployed across the city to maintain law and order. Initial investigations led to the arrest of eight individuals based on CCTV footage, drone surveillance, and mobile recordings. Police Commissioner S. Dev Datta Singh confirmed that further arrests are likely as the probe continues. Fresh tension erupted on Sunday evening during a Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) bike rally that passed through the same sensitive locality, allegedly violating restrictions. The situation escalated again as crowds gathered, shops were vandalized, and CCTV cameras were damaged. The police responded with mild force to disperse the groups and prevent further unrest. Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi appealed for calm, stating that strict action would be taken against those involved. The VHP called for a 12-hour bandh in Cuttack on Monday, demanding the transfer of the local DCP and district collector. Meanwhile, the Odisha Police has issued warnings against the spread of provocative content online, urging the public to avoid misinformation and maintain peace. Flag marches and continuous patrolling are ongoing in sensitive zones, with senior officials monitoring the situation closely. #Cuttack #OdishaNews #InternetShutdown #DurgaPuja #PublicSafety #CivicPeace
