Cuttack: The Odisha Government has imposed a 24-hour suspension of internet services starting Sunday evening, as tensions escalated following fresh clashes between two groups in the city. The ban, effective from 7 pm on Sunday to 7 pm on Monday, also includes a prohibition on social media use.
Areas affected by the suspension
The restrictions are applicable in the Cuttack Municipal Corporation, Cuttack Development Authority (CDA), and the 42 Mauza Region. Authorities cited the ongoing unrest as the reason for the preventive measures to maintain law and order.
Fresh clashes and property damage reported
The unrest comes after stone pelting and clashes between groups during Durga Puja immersion ceremonies late Saturday night. On Sunday, Assistant Fire Officer Sanjeeb Kumar Behera reported that rioters set fire to 8–10 places near Gouri Shankar Park, which were later extinguished by the fire department.
Behera added that rioters were also pelting stones at emergency personnel, prompting deployment of police to control the situation.
Police monitoring and public advisory
Odisha Director-General of Police Yogesh Bahadur Khurania assured that the situation is under control and warned that action will be taken against all anti-social elements involved in the violence.
Khurania urged residents to avoid believing rumours and to rely on official sources, including the police website, Commissionerate’s website, and their Twitter handle for verified information.
Preventive measures to ensure safety
The internet and social media suspension aims to prevent the spread of misinformation and maintain peace in the affected areas. Police continue to closely monitor the situation, ensuring public safety during the festive period.