Rising Communal Tensions in Cuttack Following Unapproved Bike Rally

Violence Erupts in Cuttack Amidst Police Restrictions

On Sunday, a bike rally organized by a group in Cuttack, Odisha, led to renewed communal tensions and violent clashes after police denied permission for the event. The situation escalated, resulting in stone-pelting, arson, and police intervention, leaving at least 25 individuals injured, including eight police officers. To prevent further unrest, authorities imposed a 36-hour curfew and suspended internet services in the area.

Curfew Imposed in 13 Police Jurisdictions

In response to the recent violence, the Odisha government enforced a curfew in 13 police jurisdictions starting Sunday night. This decision followed clashes during the immersion procession of Durga idols, which had already resulted in injuries to 25 people. Police Commissioner S. Devdutt Singh announced that the curfew would remain in effect for 36 hours, beginning at 10 PM on Sunday.

Internet Services Suspended to Curb Misinformation

To address the current law and order situation, the state government suspended internet services in Cuttack Municipal Corporation, Cuttack Development Authority (CDA), and surrounding areas from 7 PM Sunday to 7 PM Monday. Officials indicated that the violence erupted after the Vishva Hindu Parishad (VHP) organized a motorcycle rally in defiance of district administration orders. Singh noted that tensions escalated when security personnel attempted to halt the rally.

Local Residents Object to Loud Music During Procession

According to police reports, clashes occurred near Hathi Pokhari in the Daragah Bazaar area during the immersion procession. The violence ignited when local residents expressed their objections to the loud music being played during the procession. The argument quickly escalated into a confrontation, with the crowd throwing stones and glass bottles from rooftops, injuring several, including Cuttack's Deputy Commissioner of Police, Khiladi Rishikesh Gyandev.

Six Arrested Amid Ongoing Investigations

As of now, six individuals have been arrested, and authorities are working to identify additional suspects using CCTV footage, drone images, and eyewitness accounts. A spokesperson for the VHP stated that the administration failed to ensure a peaceful immersion despite repeated requests.

Government Condemns Attempts to Disrupt Communal Harmony

The Biju Janata Dal (BJD) has blamed 'anti-social elements' for attempting to disrupt communal harmony. Chief Minister Mohan Chandra Majhi assured strict action against those responsible and directed officials to provide free medical assistance to the injured. Additional police forces have been deployed in sensitive areas, and curfews have been enforced to prevent further escalation.