Internet shut in Cuttack due to violent Visharjan clash; VHP calls strike

The city of Cuttack remained tense on Sunday following a violent outbreak that marred the Durga Puja idol immersion proceedings. The clashes erupted near Haathi Pokhari in the Daraghabazar area during the early hours of Sunday morning, prompting the Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) to announce a 12-hour bandh (strike) for October 6 in protest against what they termed severe administrative lapses.

The violence, which occurred between 1:30 am and 2 am, began as an immersion procession was moving toward Debigara on the banks of the Kathajodi river. Police officials reported that the unrest was initially triggered when a group of locals raised objections to the high-decibel music being played by the procession.

The situation quickly escalated from verbal arguments to a serious confrontation. An official confirmed that a mob began pelting stones and glass bottles from rooftops onto the procession below. The resultant violence led to injuries among several revellers, including Cuttack DCP Khilari Rishikesh Dnyandeo, who was caught in the mob attack.

To regain control and disperse the rioters, police forces had to resort to a mild lathi charge. The immersion activities were subsequently halted for nearly three hours as puja committee members staged protests at the site, demanding the immediate arrest of those responsible for the assault. The VHP spokesperson later condemned the authorities, claiming they "failed to ensure peaceful immersion despite repeated requests."

The VHP has not only called for a city-wide bandh but has also demanded the immediate transfer of both the DCP and the district collector, citing their "inability to maintain law and order" during the sensitive immersion period. The clashes resulted in damage to several vehicles and roadside stalls, adding to the disorder.

Despite the tension, the remaining idols were immersed by 9:30 am under the cover of a heavy police deployment. So far, six individuals have been arrested in connection with the violence, with authorities utilizing CCTV footage, drone visuals, and eyewitness accounts to identify and apprehend other perpetrators. Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi has assured strict action and directed officials to provide free medical care to all injured persons, while prohibitory orders remain in effect across sensitive areas.