Curfew, net ban in Cuttack after group clash

Bhubaneswar, Oct 6 (UNI) The Odisha government has imposed a 36-hour curfew in Cuttack city and suspended internet and social media services following reports of tension and sporadic incidents of violence between two groups.
The curfew, which came into effect at 10 PM yesterday, will remain in force till 10 AM tomorrow.

The decision was taken to prevent the spread of false, provocative, and inflammatory messages on platforms such as WhatsApp, Facebook, X, Instagram, and Snapchat, which could disturb public peace and order, according to an official notification issued by the Home Department.

Additional Chief Secretary Satyabrata Sahu stated that the restrictions aim to maintain law and order and prevent further escalation of tension.
The Commissioner of Police has issued an advisory urging Cuttack residents to remain calm, avoid rumours, and cooperate with police efforts to restore normalcy. “Odisha Police is fully committed to maintaining peace and order.
“All necessary measures have been taken to ensure the safety of citizens,” the advisory said.

To maintain law and order, the authorities have deployed 60 platoons of police personnel and six companies of the Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF) across the city.
All entry points to Cuttack have been sealed to prevent the movement of anti-social elements from outside.

Additional Director General (ADG) of Police, Law and Order, Sanjay Kumar, warned miscreants against attempting to disrupt peace and said exemplary action will be taken against those involved in the recent violence.
The curfew has been imposed under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS) in 13 police station limits, prohibiting unlawful gatherings. However, essential services have been exempted, and government offices will remain open, sources said.

Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi expressed deep sorrow over the incident and appealed to the people to maintain peace and harmony. He assured that strict action would be taken against those responsible for disturbing public order.
Majhi described Cuttack as a millennium city and a timeless symbol of communal harmony and brotherhood.

“In recent days, the peace of the city has been disturbed by the actions of a few miscreants, disrupting normal life. The government is closely monitoring such elements, and strict legal action will follow,” he said.
The Chief Minister urged citizens to stand united in preserving Cuttack’s rich legacy of peace, harmony, and brotherhood.