The city's long-standing reputation for harmony has been called into question as a result of the confrontation, which involved stone-pelting and increased tensions.

Cuttack, a city where people from different backgrounds have coexisted with mutual respect and trust for more than a millennium, is a living example of harmony and cohabitation. Known as the Millennium City, its historic neighborhoods and winding streets have long reverberated with tales of compassion, fraternity, and solidarity that have characterized its collective spirit for many centuries.

However, that legacy was marred by the late Friday night brawl. An innocent Durga Puja idol immersion parade abruptly descended into a bloody altercation between two factions. Tension, dread, and disbelief were left behind in a city that has traditionally taken pride in its togetherness as stones were thrown, tempers rose, and in a matter of seconds, the tranquility that had marked Cuttack for generations was destroyed.

The Clash's Night
Two groups reportedly got into a heated argument near Dargha Bazaar late Friday night during the immersion procession of Durga idols. Verbal altercations quickly turned into scuffles and stone-throwing. Police quickly stepped in and dispersed the crowd with light force. Four individuals, including Cuttack DCP Khilari Rishikesh Dnyandeo, were hurt in the altercation.

Tensions Rise Then
On social media, there were rumors that one of the injured had passed away. Tension in the surrounding communities was heightened by the rapid dissemination of angry posts and fake films. Commissionerate Police urged for composure and increased patrols. To regain locals' trust, a flag march was held on Sunday through sensitive areas of the city.

See Also: Cuttack clash: Commissionerate Police warns against believing or spreading rumors

However, tensions increased once more in the evening when protesters attacked the police near Cuttack's Dargah Bazar, resulting in a violent altercation. More than six police officers, including the DCP and the IIC police station in Dargah Bazar, were reportedly hurt, along with a few members of the media.

Advisory and Curfew
The administration halted internet services until 7 PM on Monday and enforced a 36-hour curfew starting at 10 PM on Sunday in order to stop the situation from getting worse. No one had been killed in the altercation, according to a public advisory released by the Commissionerate Police. Sankar Biswal is still receiving treatment but is stable, while Pintu Mahar, Mukesh Mahar, and Subhashree Jena were released from the hospital out of the four injured.

Police emphasized that false narratives were being exploited to disrupt communal cohesion and threatened to take strong measures against individuals who disseminate misinformation.

City Under Surveillance
There is still a significant police presence in Cuttack. Movement is restricted in regions affected by curfews, and markets remain shuttered. In an effort to restore normalcy, peace committee meetings have been started, and senior officials are keeping a careful eye on the situation.

See also: Commissionerate Police hold a flag march prior to the VHP's request for a bandh in Cuttack

Reiterating Cuttack's ancient brotherhood that has endured for a thousand years, Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Majhi and other local officials and citizens have called for togetherness.