The city of Cuttack remains on edge this Sunday, just one day after significant violence erupted between two groups during the Durga Puja idol immersion ceremony. In response to the unrest, the Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) has declared a 12-hour citywide shutdown for Monday.
Police reports confirm that the clashes began early Saturday morning, between 1:30 a.m. and 2:00 a.m., near Haathi Pokhari in the Daraghabazar locality. The confrontation occurred as an immersion procession was making its way towards Debigara, situated along the Kathajodi river.
Officials have stated that the violence was sparked when a group of local residents raised objections to the high-volume music accompanying the procession.
What started as a dispute quickly turned violent. A mob began pelting stones and glass bottles from rooftops onto the procession, causing injuries to several participants, including Cuttack DCP Khilari Rishikesh Dnyandeo.
In an effort to de-escalate the situation and regain control, police were forced to use a mild lathi charge to disperse the agitated crowd.
The extensive clash resulted in damage to numerous vehicles and several roadside stalls in the area.
Immersion ceremonies came to a standstill for almost three hours as various Puja committees organized a protest, demanding the immediate arrest of those responsible for the assault.
Under heightened security, the immersion process eventually recommenced, with all remaining idols successfully immersed by 9:30 a.m. on Sunday.
Police have confirmed the arrest of six individuals so far. Investigations are ongoing, utilizing CCTV footage, drone surveillance, and eyewitness testimonies to identify and apprehend other perpetrators.
The VHP has strongly criticized the administration, citing a failure to maintain law and order. The organization has demanded the immediate transfer of both the Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) and the District Collector, accusing them of incompetence.
As a form of protest, the VHP has announced a dawn-to-dusk bandh (shutdown) across the city for Monday.
A VHP spokesperson stated, “Despite our repeated appeals, the authorities were unable to guarantee a peaceful immersion process.”
Meanwhile, the Biju Janata Dal (BJD) attributed the unrest to “anti-social elements” attempting to undermine communal harmony. Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi has promised stringent action against those accountable and has instructed officials to ensure free medical treatment for all injured.
To prevent further escalation, additional police forces have been deployed in sensitive areas throughout Cuttack, and prohibitory orders have been put in place.
Senior police officials are currently overseeing the situation with close vigilance.