What Did Odisha CM Say About the Communal Clash in Cuttack?
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Synopsis
Odisha's CM Mohan Charan Majhi has called for peace after a communal clash in Cuttack marred the Durga idol immersion. This incident raises concerns about the fabric of communal harmony in a historically peaceful city, prompting leaders to urge for unity and law enforcement vigilance.
Key Takeaways
- Odisha CM Mohan Charan Majhi emphasizes peace following communal unrest.
- Cuttack has a history of communal harmony, now threatened by recent events.
- Strict actions against troublemakers have been promised by the government.
- Former CM Naveen Patnaik also condemned the violence.
- A temporary ban on social media aims to prevent further unrest.
Bhubaneswar, Oct 5 (NationPress) Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi expressed profound regret over the communal violence that erupted in Cuttack during the Durga idol immersion ceremony late Friday night. He urged the citizens to uphold peace and tranquility.
“Cuttack is a city with a rich history. It exemplifies communal harmony. Unfortunately, recent days have seen unrest caused by a few troublemakers, impacting the lives of ordinary people. The government is closely monitoring these individuals, and strict legal action will be enforced against them,” CM Majhi cautioned.
The Chief Minister further called on everyone to unite and sustain peace to maintain Cuttack's esteemed reputation.
In related news, former Chief Minister and Leader of Opposition Naveen Patnaik denounced the altercation that occurred during the Durga Puja immersion in Cuttack.
In a post on X, Patnaik stated, “I vehemently condemn the clash that unfolded at Dargha Bazar during the Dussehra immersion procession. Such discord in a city known for its brotherhood is concerning. Incidents of stone and bottle-throwing during the procession reveal a troubling situation.”
“The unrest in peaceful Odisha is entirely intolerable. The police seem overwhelmed in managing the situation. The pressure on law enforcement under the BJP government is undermining order in the state. It is our foremost responsibility to foster goodwill and harmony among each other,” he added.
On Sunday, clashes erupted between various Hindu groups and police during a protest rally in the area where the initial incident occurred on Friday night.
A senior police official informed IANS that the organizers did not receive permission for the rally. Protesters, on bikes from different parts of the city, gathered at Dargha Bazar, chanting religious slogans.
When police attempted to disband the gathering, they faced resistance and were met with stone-throwing. The security forces responded with a mild baton charge to disperse the unruly crowd.
In response to the violence, the Odisha home department has enacted a temporary ban on social media platforms including WhatsApp, Facebook, X, and others, from 7 p.m. on October 5 to 7 p.m. on October 6. This restriction will apply in areas under Cuttack Municipality Corporation, the Cuttack Development Authority, and the 42 Mouza region.
Point of View
It is imperative to understand that while communal clashes ignite tensions, the call for peace and unity from leaders like CM Majhi and former CM Patnaik is crucial. We must advocate for dialogue and cooperation to restore calm in Cuttack and promote a harmonious society in Odisha.
NationPress
05/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What triggered the communal clash in Cuttack?
The clash was triggered during the Durga idol immersion procession, reportedly due to actions by some individuals that escalated tensions.
What measures are being taken to restore peace?
The Odisha government is monitoring the situation closely and has warned of strict actions against troublemakers. There is also a temporary ban on social media to prevent further unrest.
How are local leaders responding to the violence?
Local leaders, including CM Mohan Charan Majhi and former CM Naveen Patnaik, have condemned the violence and called for unity and peace among the citizens.
What is the current status of the police response?
The police have been actively managing the situation, but there have been challenges in controlling the crowd during protests.
What areas are affected by the social media ban?
The social media ban affects regions within Cuttack Municipality Corporation, Cuttack Development Authority, and the 42 Mouza area.
