After violence erupted during idol immersion at Durga Puja in Cuttack, the administration has imposed a 36-hour curfew in 13 police station areas. Internet services have also been suspended during this period. Police have warned of strict action against rioters, while medical and essential services have been exempted.
Odisha: Following violence during idol immersion at Durga Puja in Cuttack city, the administration has taken stringent measures. A 36-hour curfew has been imposed in 13 police station areas of the city starting Sunday night. The curfew became effective from 10 PM and has been strictly enforced since morning. The police and local administration are fully focused on maintaining law and order.
Internet Services Suspended During Curfew
During the curfew, internet services have also been shut down in the city. Restrictions have been placed on WhatsApp, Facebook, Instagram, Snapchat, X, and all other social media platforms from 7 PM. The administration believes that rumors and provocative posts on social media could further worsen the situation. Due to the ban on internet and broadband services, citizens will have to rely solely on official announcements for information.
Police on Alert Mode, Continuous Patrolling Underway
Cuttack Police are on high alert. Police Commissioner S. Devdutt Singh stated that strict action would be taken against those who violate the curfew and create disturbance. Police are continuously patrolling major roads, markets, and crowded areas. Special forces and district administration officials regularly review the situation, and changes to the curfew may be made as needed.
Medical and Essential Services Granted Exemption
During the curfew, the administration has exempted medical and other essential services. Petrol pumps, hospitals, medical stores, and grocery shops have been permitted to remain open. Citizens have been urged not to leave their homes unnecessarily and to use bus services and public transport only for essential tasks. Government offices and SCB Medical College remain open and are functioning under the supervision of the administration.
Local Administration's Security Measures
Additional Police Commissioners and local officials have reviewed the situation and enhanced security in various areas of Cuttack city. Police have urged the public to maintain peace and not participate in any provocative activities. The administration has increased special surveillance on major routes and crowded areas to prevent any untoward incidents.
Details of Violence During Immersion
On Sunday, clashes occurred at some locations during the Durga Puja idol immersion, resulting in injuries to people and damage to property. Following this incident, the administration decided to impose a curfew and suspend internet services. Police are continuously monitoring the situation in various areas, and efforts are being made to de-escalate tension in the affected regions.
Opposition Leader Naveen Patnaik Appeals for Peace
Odisha's opposition leader Naveen Patnaik has appealed for peace in Cuttack. He stated that the people of Cuttack and Odisha have always been peace-loving, and maintaining law and order in the state is everyone's responsibility. Patnaik urged people to exercise restraint during the tense situation and comply with the administration's directives.
