Curfew Implemented in Sensitive Areas

Cuttack police have enforced a 36-hour curfew across sensitive zones under 13 police stations to contain escalating tensions in the city. Affected areas include Darghabazar, Mangalabag, Cantonment, Lalbag, CDA-2, Purighat, Jagatpur, Markatanagar, Badambadi, Bayalismauj, Sadar, Bidanasi, and Malgodam. Police Commissioner Suresh Debdatta Singh stated that the measure was necessary to restore calm swiftly.

Restrictions and Essential Services

While essential services remain operational, public gatherings, processions, and assemblies are strictly prohibited. Commissioner Singh indicated that the curfew could be extended if required, with police conducting thorough combing operations to apprehend troublemakers.

Clashes and Injuries

The unrest originated from a bitter rivalry between two factions, leading to violent clashes in which 25 police personnel were injured, eight seriously. Offenders attacked the police with stones, while authorities defended themselves.

Social Media Ban and Preventive Measures

To prevent the spread of communal violence, the district administration has banned social media from 7 pm today to 7 pm tomorrow. Fake news and hate speech are being cited as major contributors to the unrest.

Government Appeals for Calm

Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi appealed to the public to maintain peace, emphasizing Cuttack’s longstanding unity. He vowed strict action against those responsible and urged citizen support to restore the city’s reputation.

Ongoing Vigil and Restoration Efforts

As Cuttack recovers from the chaos, police remain on high alert, and the government is taking measures to ensure such disturbances do not recur, aiming to return the city to normalcy quickly.

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