CUTTACK UNDER CURFEW

Cuttack, Odisha’s Silver City, witnessed violent clashes following a Durga Puja immersion procession in October 2025. Internet was suspended, curfew imposed, and multiple people were injured. Here’s a detailed account of what happened, how the situation unfolded, and what steps are being taken to restore peace.

Durga Puja, the most awaited festival in eastern India, is known for its grandeur, cultural richness, and spiritual fervor. The streets of Cuttack, often referred to as the Silver City for its exquisite silver filigree idols, come alive each year during the festivities. However, the joy of celebration turned into chaos this year when violence erupted during an idol immersion procession in the heart of the city

What began as a simple disagreement over loud music soon escalated into stone-pelting, vandalism, and clashes between groups, leaving several people injured and the entire district on edge. By October 5, 2025, the Odisha government had to impose a 36-hour curfew and suspend internet services across Cuttack to prevent the spread of misinformation and restore order

Cuttack is not just another city in Odisha, it’s a historical and cultural gem that has been the cradle of Odia heritage for centuries. Situated on the banks of the Mahanadi River, it’s known for its craftsmanship, vibrant Durga Puja celebrations, and communal harmony.

Every year, over 150 puja pandals adorn the city, with idols decorated in pure silver and gold ornaments. The immersion procession, or Bisarjan, is the final act of devotion, when thousands gather along the riverbanks to bid farewell to Goddess Durga amid chants, music, and dance.

However, this year’s celebrations were marred by tension that spiraled out of control during one such immersion rally in the Dargha Bazaar–Hatipokhari area, a densely populated region with narrow lanes and mixed communities.

According to official reports and eyewitness accounts, the incident began on Friday night (October 4, 2025) when a dispute broke out over the playing of loud music during a Durga Puja immersion procession in Cuttack city.

The clash initially started as a verbal altercation between two groups but quickly turned violent. Within minutes, stones were hurled, vehicles vandalized, and panic spread through the streets. Police officers who tried to control the situation were also attacked. At least 25 people, including several police personnel, were injured in the ensuing chaos.

As the violence spread, shops were shuttered, traffic halted, and the sound of sirens replaced the festive drums that once filled the air. The very city that had been celebrating divine victory over evil was suddenly gripped by fear and uncertainty.

In the immediate aftermath, the Odisha government acted swiftly to prevent further escalation. The Cuttack district administration imposed a 36-hour curfew starting from 10 PM on Sunday (October 5) across 13 police station areas, including Dargha Bazaar, Mangalabag, Choudhury Bazaar, and Lalbag.

People were ordered to remain indoors. Only essential services such as hospitals, pharmacies, milk booths, and petrol pumps were allowed to function. Educational institutions, offices, and markets were temporarily closed.

To prevent rumors and false information from circulating, the government suspended mobile internet and social media platforms like WhatsApp, Facebook, and Instagram across Cuttack Municipal Corporation and adjoining areas for 24 hours.

The Chief Minister of Odisha and senior administrative officials made public appeals urging citizens to maintain peace and harmony. Religious and community leaders also came together to issue joint statements against violence, emphasizing that “festivals are meant for unity, not division.”

In response to the violence, the Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) announced a 12-hour bandh (shutdown) in Cuttack on Monday. The bandh, however, was largely peaceful under strict police vigilance.

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