VHP Calls for Bandh: After Clashes In Cuttack, Violence Over Durga Puja Clashes

On Sunday night, the Odisha government imposed a 36-hour curfew, followed by a 24-hour internet suspension.

After clashes between two groups, further violence broke out in various parts of Cuttack during the Durga idol immersion procession.

The affected areas include Dargah Bazaar, Mangalabag, Cantonment, Purighat, Lal Bagh, Bidanasi, Market Nagar, CDA Phase 2, Malgodam, Badambadi, Jagatpur, Bayalis Mouza, and Sadar police station, covering 13 police jurisdictions.

On Sunday at 7 PM, internet services were suspended, including mobile internet, broadband, and all online messaging platforms such as WhatsApp, Facebook, X, Instagram, and Snapchat. The suspension was implemented to control the spread of provocative and inflammatory messages on social media.

Violence in Cuttack

Late Friday night near Dargah Bazaar, two communities clashed over loud music during the Durga idol procession near Haathi Pokhari, between 1:30 AM and 2:00 AM, according to police reports.

During the violence, six people were injured, including Cuttack Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) Khilari Rishikesh Dnyandeo. Roadside stalls and vehicles were also damaged.

So far, police have arrested six individuals in connection with the violence and are scanning CCTV footage, drone visuals, and eyewitness accounts to identify others involved.

A senior police officer said, “We have formed multiple teams to track down those responsible. More arrests are likely.”

VHP Calls for Bandh

On Monday, the Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) called for a 12-hour bandh in Cuttack.

Speaking to local reporters, a VHP spokesperson said, “Despite repeated requests, the police failed to control miscreants. We demand immediate action against negligent officials.”