Cuttack Under Tight Security After Communal Violence; Curfew, Internet Ban Extended Amid Ongoing Tensions
Cuttack Under Control, Security Tight: Curfew Period To End At 10 Am Today: The city of Cuttack remains under an unprecedented security blanket as communal tensions that erupted during the Bhasana festival of Maa Durga continue to disrupt normal life. 65 platoons of security personnel, including CRPF, BSF, and Rapid Action Force (RAF), have been deployed across the city, turning it into a high-security zone.
Curfew and Internet Ban Extended
The 36-hour curfew, imposed from 10 PM on Sunday, remains in force. Police Commissioner Suresh Debdutt Singh announced that while the situation is gradually improving, restrictions have been further tightened. A decision on lifting or extending the curfew will be taken based on how the situation evolves.
Meanwhile, the ban on mobile internet services, originally set to be lifted at 7 PM on Monday, has been extended by another 24 hours, until 7 PM on Tuesday, as a precautionary measure to curb misinformation and maintain peace.
City Under Lockdown
The usually bustling streets of Cuttack have fallen silent. With roadblocks at every major intersection and sirens echoing through deserted lanes, the city is under strict surveillance. Riot control vehicles, frequent vehicle checks, and random patrolling have become the new normal.
Key areas such as Dargah Bazaar, Kadam Rasul, Bakshi Bazaar, and Kacheri Chhak are under heightened security. Police are allowing movement only in cases of medical or emergency needs, and even then, strict questioning is being enforced.
Arrests and Cases Registered
In connection with the communal violence that began on Sunday, police have registered over 200 cases, and more than 42 accused are currently in custody. These individuals are being held at Chaudhary, CDA Phase-2, Nandankanan, and Barang police stations.
Police have also registered three new cases and arrested eight more individuals as investigations continue. Authorities are scrutinizing CCTV footage and videos circulated online to identify more rioters.
The Commissionerate Police confirmed that several of those involved in the violence during a Hindu religious procession on Jail Road have been booked under stringent sections of the Indian Penal Code, including charges related to rioting, assault, arson, and destruction of public property.
City Reels Under Impact
The impact of the curfew and internet shutdown has been deeply felt. With shops, markets, and food outlets closed, city residents are struggling to access daily essentials. Patients and their families, especially those under the Ayushman Bharat Yojana, have faced challenges due to the lack of internet connectivity in hospitals.
At the bus stand, stranded passengers were seen waiting for hours, while the shutdown of medical centers and food outlets has added to the distress of families accompanying the ill.
Misinformation and Rumors
The police are battling not just violence, but also rumors. An incident reported from Nimsahi under Purighat police station, initially believed to be a communal attack, turned out to be a drunken driving accident. Police clarified that the man involved was intoxicated and sustained injuries after falling from his scooter, which was misinterpreted as a violent assault. Authorities rescued him and rushed him to a local hospital.
Authorities Call for Calm
Director General of Police Y.B. Khurania is personally overseeing the situation. Senior officers have been stationed in sensitive areas to ensure law and order. The Commissionerate Police has made repeated appeals to citizens to stay indoors, avoid rumors, and cooperate with law enforcement.
Conclusion
Cuttack, a city known for its communal harmony, has been pushed into an unprecedented crisis, witnessing a curfew after 34 years. While peace is slowly returning, the tense calm, continued security deployment, and restricted freedoms show that the road to normalcy may take time. Authorities remain vigilant, and the focus is now on restoring trust, peace, and stability in the city.
ALSO READ: Vastu Tips For Home Temple
