Cuttack (Odisha) [India], October 6 (ANI): Biju Janata Dal (BJD) Rajya Sabha MP Sulata Deo on Sunday condemned the violent clashes during Durga Puja idol immersion in Cuttack, Odisha, which erupted after police denied permission for a bike rally to prevent communal tensions, leading to stone-pelting that injured 25 including eight policemen and prompted internet shutdowns and prohibitory orders.
Speaking to ANI, Deo highlighted the city’s tradition of communal harmony while criticising the BJP-led government’s handling of law and order and rising crimes against women since coming to power.
“Cuttack is a city of brotherhood where Hindus, Muslims, Sikhs, and Christians all live together in harmony, and there’s never a problem during festivals. What happened in Cuttack is extremely unfortunate. This government can neither tackle the law and order situation nor can it handle the atrocities against women. Since the BJP government has come to power, the crime rate has increased,” she said.
Meanwhile, security forces conducted a flag march after tensions flared due to a clash between police and an organisation that was denied permission to hold a bike rally.
A total of 25 people, including eight policemen, were injured in the incident. The internet services are suspended. A 36-hour curfew has been imposed.
Police Commissioner Suresh Debadutta Singh stated, “An organisation in Cuttack requested permission to hold a bike rally, but it was denied. This led to a clash with the police. When the police enforced that they would not be allowed to pass through the road, as it could lead to communal tensions. Eight policemen were injured in the stone pelting. These individuals were later dispersed using force.”
He clarified that rumours about a death from injuries during a prior stone-pelting incident at a Durga idol immersion were false, with all four injured having minor injuries, three discharged, and one under treatment.
“We have also learned that rumours were being spread that one of the four individuals who were injured in the stone-pelting incident during Durga idol immersion has died. Those who spread these rumours will be arrested. Of the four injured that day, all had minor injuries. Three were discharged the same day. One is being treated. A curfew will be imposed to maintain peace,’ he said.
The situation is tense in Cuttack as fresh clashes between two groups were reported here on Sunday. This comes following the incident of stone pelting and clash between them during Durga Puja immersion late last night. Police are present at the spot. (ANI)