Cuttack Communal Tensions: 8 Arrested Following VHP Clashes and City-Wide Security Measures

Eight individuals were arrested on Monday following violent clashes in Cuttack, Odisha, where authorities implemented a 12-hour bandh with substantial security presence and prohibitory orders in effect.

Commissioner of Police S Dev Datta Singh confirmed to reporters that three cases had been registered related to Sunday's attack on police by Vishva Hindu Parishad (VHP) activists, leading to these arrests.

"The situation is now under control," the Commissioner stated.

Among the 25 people injured during the attack were senior police officer Amarenda Panda and Cuttack Deputy Commissioner of Police Khilari Rishikesh Dnyandeo. Officer Panda required intensive care treatment at the SCB Medical College and Hospital.

Authorities continue conducting raids throughout the city after identifying some perpetrators through CCTV footage analysis.

The initial confrontation erupted early Saturday near Haathi Pokhari in the Daraghabazar area when local residents objected to loud music played during immersion processions. What began as a verbal disagreement quickly escalated into violence with stone and glass bottle throwing.

Six individuals, including DCP Dnyandeo, sustained injuries during these initial clashes.

The VHP called for a 12-hour bandh on Monday, alleging police failure to protect the processions from attack.

On Sunday, police intercepted a VHP motorcycle rally supporting the bandh when it approached the troubled area, triggering further violence. VHP participants hurled stones at police officers, who responded with lathi charge, tear gas, and rubber bullets to regain control.

Several shops in the Gourishankar Park area reportedly were set ablaze during this confrontation.

Monday's bandh, which commenced at 6 am, received mixed public response but remained peaceful.

Government offices and educational institutions operated with reduced attendance. Markets and fuel stations remained open, while public transportation continued operating, though at reduced frequency due to police-imposed restrictions.

Assistant Commissioner of Police Narasingha Bhol reported deployment of 1,800 state police personnel, approximately 800 Central Armed Police Forces members, and Odisha Swift Action Force units across the city.

Police patrols continue in sensitive areas with tight restrictions on city entry points.

"We are restricting entry into Cuttack city, except for people working here and patients traveling to the SCB Medical College and Hospital. Passenger buses are being stopped at entry points. All access routes have been secured to monitor movement of potential troublemakers," explained ACP Bhol.

Additional Director General (Law and Order) Sanjay Kumar confirmed no further incidents had occurred, with all agencies maintaining high alert status.

He added that senior officers are continuously monitoring field conditions with instructions to take immediate action against anyone violating the law.

Officials implemented prohibitory orders for 36 hours until Tuesday 10 am across 13 of the city's 20 police station jurisdictions.

Internet services were also suspended for 24 hours from Sunday 7 pm to prevent further escalation.

The Odisha Police issued a public statement urging citizens to verify information before sharing on social media and to avoid posting false or inflammatory content.

"Some individuals are creating social unrest by generating and spreading fake news. Strict legal action will be taken against those circulating false or misleading information," the statement warned.