Why Did the Odisha Government Extend Internet Suspension in Cuttack?
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Synopsis
The Odisha government has taken decisive action by extending the internet suspension in Cuttack until October 7, addressing concerns over potential misuse by anti-social elements. This measure aims to maintain public order amidst rising tensions following recent violence. The authorities are committed to restoring peace and security in the city.
Key Takeaways
- Internet services in Cuttack are suspended until October 7.
- A 36-hour curfew is in effect in multiple police station areas.
- Authorities are concerned about the spread of rumours via social media.
- The situation is being monitored by local police and central forces.
- Community leaders are calling for peace and stability.
Bhubaneswar, Oct 6 (NationPress) The Odisha government has decided to extend the suspension of internet services in Cuttack city until 7 PM on October 7. This measure comes in response to concerns about the potential misuse of social media platforms and instant messaging applications by anti-social elements to spread rumours and disrupt peace and tranquillity in the area.
As per an order from the Odisha Home Department, access to popular social media platforms including WhatsApp, Facebook, X, Instagram, and Snapchat, alongside mobile internet/data services from all providers, and broadband services in the Cuttack Municipal Corporation (CMC) area, the Cuttack Development Authority (CDA) area, and the 42 Mauza region will be restricted from 7 PM on Monday to 7 PM on Tuesday.
The Home Department had previously enacted a similar suspension for 24 hours, starting Sunday evening and ending Monday evening.
In conjunction with this, the Commissionerate Police has instituted a 36-hour curfew across 13 police station areas in the city as of Sunday evening.
This decision follows a recent outbreak of violence during a bike rally organized by the Vishva Hindu Parishad (VHP) on Sunday evening (October 5), related to an attack on a Durga Puja immersion procession that occurred on Friday night. Authorities have deemed it necessary to enforce a curfew in several sensitive locations within the city for the next 36 hours.
In a statement to IANS, Commissioner of Police S Dev Datta Singh noted, “Yesterday, stones were thrown at the police when they intervened in a procession that was conducted without permission. The police had to use force to disperse the crowd, which led to the curfew. The situation has remained stable so far under the curfew. Adequate numbers of Central Armed Police Force and Commissionerate Police personnel have been deployed throughout the city to reassure the public.”
Singh also revealed that 60 platoons of police forces, along with six companies of the Central Armed Police Force and the Rapid Action Force, have been positioned in various sensitive areas to restore normalcy.
In light of the ongoing communal tensions, Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, along with leader of the Opposition Naveen Patnaik, local MLA, MP, and other leaders have urged citizens to maintain peace.
Point of View
The decision by the Odisha government to extend internet restrictions reflects a proactive stance on maintaining public order. While the measures may be seen as extreme, they underscore the urgency of addressing communal tensions and safeguarding peace in the region. It’s vital to balance such actions with the rights of citizens to access information.
NationPress
06/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Why was the internet suspended in Cuttack?
The internet was suspended due to concerns over the potential misuse of social media and messaging platforms by anti-social elements to spread rumours and create unrest.
How long will the internet suspension last?
The internet suspension in Cuttack will last until 7 PM on October 7.
What areas are affected by the internet suspension?
The suspension affects the Cuttack Municipal Corporation area, Cuttack Development Authority area, and the 42 Mauza region.
Is there a curfew in Cuttack?
Yes, a 36-hour curfew has been imposed in 13 police station areas of the city to maintain order.
What led to the curfew being imposed?
The curfew was imposed following violence during a bike rally organized by the Vishva Hindu Parishad related to an earlier attack on a Durga Puja immersion procession.
