The historic city of Cuttack in Odisha has been thrust into chaos as violent clashes erupted over the past 48 hours, prompting the administration to impose a curfew, suspend internet services, and ban social media platforms. The situation remains tense as authorities struggle to restore order in one of the state’s most prominent districts.
The Trigger: What Sparked the Violence?
The unrest began after a heated altercation between two communities during a religious procession in the Tulasipur area of Cuttack. Eyewitnesses claim that the dispute escalated quickly, leading to stone-pelting, arson, and vandalism. Several vehicles were set ablaze, and shops were looted as mobs took to the streets. The violence soon spread to neighboring areas, including Balu Bazaar and Choudhury Bazaar, forcing residents to barricade themselves indoors.
Local officials have attributed the clashes to “miscommunication and misinformation” circulating on social media, which allegedly fueled tensions between the groups. However, community leaders have accused the administration of failing to anticipate and prevent the escalation.
Curfew and Internet Shutdown: A Desperate Move
In response to the escalating violence, the Cuttack district administration imposed a curfew across the city, restricting public movement from 8 PM to 6 AM. Additionally, internet services were suspended, and access to social media platforms like Facebook, Twitter, and WhatsApp was blocked to curb the spread of rumors and inflammatory content.
“The situation was getting out of hand. The curfew and internet shutdown were necessary to prevent further violence and ensure public safety,” said a senior police official. However, the decision has drawn criticism from activists and residents who argue that the move has left them in the dark and hindered communication during a crisis.
Law Enforcement on High Alert
Odisha Police and Rapid Action Force (RAF) personnel have been deployed in large numbers to maintain law and order. Tear gas shells and water cannons were used to disperse the mobs, and several individuals involved in the violence have been arrested. Authorities have also set up peace committees to mediate between the warring groups and restore calm.
“Violence is not the solution. We urge all citizens to maintain peace and cooperate with the administration,” said Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik in a public address. He also assured that strict action would be taken against those responsible for the unrest.
Impact on Daily Life
The curfew and internet shutdown have disrupted daily life in Cuttack. Schools, colleges, and businesses remain closed, and public transport services have been suspended. Residents are facing difficulties accessing essential supplies, and many are fearful of stepping out of their homes.
“The city feels like a war zone. We are scared for our safety and don’t know when things will return to normal,” said a local shopkeeper, who chose to remain anonymous.
Political Reactions and Calls for Peace
The violence has sparked a political blame game, with opposition parties accusing the ruling Biju Janata Dal (BJD) government of failing to maintain law and order. “The administration was caught off guard. Such incidents tarnish the image of Odisha as a peaceful state,” said a senior leader of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).
Meanwhile, civil society groups and religious leaders have appealed for peace and harmony. “We must not let hatred divide us. It is time to come together and heal,” said a prominent community leader during a peace rally.
What’s Next?
As the administration works to restore normalcy, the focus remains on preventing further violence and addressing the root causes of the conflict. The internet shutdown is expected to be lifted once the situation stabilizes, but the scars of this unrest may take time to heal.
For now, Cuttack remains on edge, with residents hoping for a swift resolution to the crisis. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the fragility of communal harmony and the urgent need for proactive measures to prevent such clashes in the future.
Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story.
