Cuttack Violence Erupts Again: A Disturbing Pattern During Hindu Festivals

Once again, Cuttack has witnessed violence during what should have been a peaceful and joyous Durga Puja immersion procession. What began as a routine celebration quickly turned chaotic when clashes broke out near Haathi Pokhari late in the evening. Reports indicate that tensions started over loud music being played during the procession, which a group of locals objected to. Within minutes, the disagreement escalated into stone pelting, vandalism, and injuries, including to senior police officers.

According to the Times of India, the situation deteriorated rapidly as mobs began targeting vehicles and shops, forcing authorities to impose curfew-like restrictions and suspend internet services in several parts of the city. Law enforcement had to resort to lathi charges to disperse the crowd. The violence has left the city tense, with residents fearful of further escalation.

This incident is not an isolated one. Over the past few years, there have been several similar outbreaks of unrest during Hindu religious festivals across India — particularly during processions and public celebrations. Many observers have raised a worrying question: why do Hindu festivals so often become targets of disruption?

Some locals claim that “infiltrators” and outside groups intentionally exploit these occasions to provoke communal tensions. These groups allegedly use small triggers — like objections to loud music, routes of processions, or symbolic displays — to incite confrontation. In Cuttack, too, early investigations suggest that the violence may not have been entirely spontaneous, with stone pelting reportedly originating from rooftops and alleyways — a sign of premeditation.

However, it’s important to note that official investigations are ongoing, and no definitive proof has yet emerged about organized involvement. Still, the recurring pattern raises serious concerns about public safety during Hindu religious events and the ability of local administrations to anticipate and prevent such clashes.

Festivals like Durga Puja are meant to be a celebration of faith, culture, and unity. Yet, repeated incidents of violence have created an environment of suspicion and fear — especially in regions with mixed populations.

Cuttack’s unrest is another reminder that maintaining communal harmony requires not just policing, but also accountability and proactive action against those who exploit religious sentiment for violence.