Cuttack Under Curfew: Prohibitory Orders Imposed Across 13 Police Station Areas Following Communal Violence

Cuttack, Odisha – In a decisive move to restore peace and prevent further escalation, prohibitory orders have been clamped across 13 police station areas in Cuttack, Odisha. The stringent measures, under Section 144 of the Criminal Procedure Code (CrPC), come in the wake of recent communal clashes that have disrupted the tranquility of the city.

The orders, initially effective for a period of two days until 10 AM on September 29, 2023, prohibit the assembly of four or more individuals in public spaces.

Authorities have also banned the use of loudspeakers and any form of provocative speech or activity that could incite further unrest. The decision was announced by the Cuttack Collector, underscoring the gravity of the situation and the administration’s commitment to maintaining law and order.

The affected areas encompass a significant portion of Cuttack, reflecting the widespread nature of the tensions.

Residents are urged to cooperate with law enforcement agencies and adhere strictly to the imposed restrictions. Police presence has been significantly bolstered in sensitive zones, with continuous patrolling to ensure compliance and deter any potential troublemakers.

The communal violence erupted following certain incidents, prompting immediate action from state authorities.

Director General of Police (DGP) Mr. Sunil Kumar Bansal has assured the public that the situation is under close watch and all necessary steps are being taken to bring the perpetrators to justice and ensure the safety of all citizens. He emphasized that peace and harmony are paramount, and any attempts to disrupt them will be met with firm action.

While the exact triggers of the violence are still under investigation, the administration is focused on de-escalating tensions and fostering an environment of mutual respect.

Community leaders and peace committees are being engaged to facilitate dialogue and promote understanding among different groups. The swift imposition of Section 144 is a preventive measure aimed at curbing the spread of misinformation and controlling crowd movements that could lead to further confrontations.

This move highlights the administration's proactive stance in addressing communal disharmony.

Citizens are advised to stay informed through official channels and refrain from circulating unverified information. The return to normalcy is the collective goal, and authorities are working tirelessly to ensure the safety and well-being of every resident in Cuttack.