Cuttack Tense After Clashes During Durga Idol Immersion: Internet Suspended, VHP Calls Bandh

Cuttack Tense After Clashes During Durga Idol Immersion: Internet Suspended, VHP Calls Bandh

Cuttack, the cultural capital of Odisha, was plunged into chaos on Thursday evening as violent clashes erupted during the immersion of Durga idols, marking the culmination of Durga Puja festivities. The incident, which occurred near the Taladanda Canal, has left the city on edge, prompting authorities to suspend internet services and impose strict curfew-like measures in affected areas. The Vishva Hindu Parishad (VHP) has called for a bandh on Friday, further escalating tensions in the region.

The Trigger: A Dispute Over Immersion Routes

The clashes reportedly began when two groups disagreed over the route for the immersion procession. Eyewitnesses claim that heated arguments quickly turned violent, with stones being hurled and vehicles vandalized. The situation spiraled out of control as more people joined the fray, leading to widespread unrest. Police officials rushed to the spot and resorted to lathi charges and tear gas to disperse the mob.

“It was utter chaos. People were running in all directions, and the sound of breaking glass and shouting filled the air,” said a local resident who witnessed the incident.

Internet Suspended, Curfew Imposed

In a bid to prevent the spread of misinformation and curb further violence, the Odisha government suspended internet services in Cuttack for 48 hours. Section 144 of the CrPC, which prohibits the assembly of four or more people, has also been imposed in sensitive areas. Police and paramilitary forces have been deployed in large numbers to maintain law and order.

“We are closely monitoring the situation and taking all necessary steps to ensure peace. We appeal to the public to remain calm and cooperate with the authorities,” said a senior police officer.

VHP Calls for Bandh

The Vishva Hindu Parishad (VHP), a prominent Hindu nationalist organization, has called for a 12-hour bandh in Cuttack on Friday to protest the violence and demand strict action against those responsible. VHP leaders have accused the administration of failing to prevent the clashes and have demanded an impartial inquiry into the incident.

“The attack on devotees during the sacred ritual of idol immersion is unacceptable. We will not tolerate any disrespect to our religious sentiments,” said a VHP spokesperson.

The bandh has received mixed reactions from locals. While some support the protest as a means to highlight the issue, others fear it could exacerbate the already tense situation.

Political Reactions

The incident has sparked a political slugfest, with opposition parties blaming the ruling Biju Janata Dal (BJD) government for failing to maintain law and order. The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has called for immediate intervention by the central government, while the Congress has demanded the resignation of the state Home Minister.

“This incident exposes the complete failure of the state government. They have no control over the situation, and the people of Cuttack are paying the price,” said a BJP leader.

On the other hand, the BJD has accused the opposition of politicizing the issue and assured the public that the situation is under control.

Impact on Durga Puja Celebrations

The clashes have cast a shadow over what was otherwise a joyous Durga Puja celebration in Cuttack. The city, known for its grand pandals and cultural events, witnessed a subdued end to the festivities as fear and uncertainty gripped the streets.

“Durga Puja is a time for unity and celebration, but this incident has left us all heartbroken. We hope peace is restored soon,” said a local shopkeeper.

Looking Ahead

As Cuttack grapples with the aftermath of the violence, the focus remains on restoring normalcy and preventing further escalation. The state government has announced the formation of a special investigation team (SIT) to probe the incident and identify the culprits. Meanwhile, residents are hoping for a swift resolution to the crisis.

The incident serves as a stark reminder of the fragile nature of communal harmony and the need for proactive measures to prevent such clashes in the future. For now, the city holds its breath, praying for peace to return to its streets.

Stay tuned to NextMinuteNews for the latest updates on this developing story.