Cuttack Unrest Ends as Silver City Prepares for Bali Yatra

Cuttack, the “Silver City” of Odisha, known for its rich culture, ancient heritage, and vibrant festivals, has always been the heart of the state — a place where tradition meets resilience. But over the past few days, this proud city has been shrouded in tension, silence, and heartbreak. What should have been a week of joy, music, and celebration turned into moments of fear and unrest, forcing authorities to impose a 36-hour shutdown and social media ban.

This is the story of Cuttack — a city shaken by conflict but still standing strong, bound together by its people’s enduring hope.

The Spark That Ignited Unrest

The trouble began in the Dargha Bazaar area during the idol immersion procession following Durga Puja — one of Odisha’s most loved festivals. What started as a festive gathering quickly spiraled into chaos when two groups clashed over music being played during the procession.

Within hours, the situation worsened. Stones were hurled, vehicles damaged, and people ran for safety as panic spread across neighborhoods. Over 25 people were injured, including police officials who were trying to control the mob.

The administration immediately imposed Section 144 of the Criminal Procedure Code, banning large gatherings, and later announced a 36-hour curfew to restore order. Internet and social media platforms were suspended for 24 hours, as misinformation and provocative posts risked deepening the divide.
(Source: The Economic Times, Times of India)

The City Under Curfew

The usually bustling streets of Cuttack — from Badambadi to Choudhury Bazaar — suddenly turned into ghostly silence. Shops were shuttered, public transport halted, and residents confined indoors. The haunting emptiness of the streets told a story of fear and uncertainty.

Even as police patrolled sensitive zones, community elders and local volunteers stepped up, urging calm and cooperation. Hospitals remained open for emergencies, while essential services were carefully managed under strict watch.

The Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) called for a 12-hour bandh (shutdown), blaming authorities for the failure to control the initial violence. Political leaders visited the affected areas, promising swift action and justice for victims.
(Source: Economic Times, Times of India)

Beyond the Violence: The People’s Struggle

While the communal clashes made headlines, they also uncovered deeper issues that Cuttack’s residents have been grappling with for years — poor infrastructure, sanitation issues, and civic neglect.

1. Roads and Sanitation Woes

The Orissa High Court recently slammed authorities for the deplorable condition of roads in several Cuttack localities like Khapuria and Gandarpur. Many roads remain broken, clogged with drains, and filled with potholes, making life difficult for daily commuters and schoolchildren.

In addition, the court raised serious concerns about the lack of clean washrooms and sanitation in government schools — an issue that directly affects student attendance and dignity.
(Source: The New Indian Express)

2. Civic Apathy and Safety Issues

Earlier this year, a 28-year-old man tragically lost his life after being assaulted and pushed before a moving vehicle during a road rage incident. Cases like this reveal how fragile public safety has become in urban Odisha.

Similarly, in Cuttack district’s Balipur village, a community center was demolished illegally — a building that once hosted health camps and local events. The High Court later declared the demolition unlawful, ordering compensation for affected villagers.

3. Waterlogging and Waste

Cuttack’s colonial-era drains, including the main drain near the Town Hall, have been choking under garbage and silt for years. Every monsoon, several heritage buildings and homes are flooded due to poor maintenance. The city’s once-glorious waterways are now victims of neglect and pollution.

Hope Amidst the Gloom: The Bali Yatra Returns

But Cuttack’s spirit cannot be defined by tragedy alone. Amid tension and tears, there shines a ray of hope — Bali Yatra 2025, one of Asia’s largest open-air festivals, is set to return from November 5 to 12.

This festival celebrates the ancient maritime trade between Odisha and Southeast Asia, when Odia sailors — known as Sadhabas— sailed to faraway lands like Baliand Java. The Mahanadi River, which now silently watches over the city, once carried ships that connected Odisha to the world.

Authorities are already working to ensure a grand, safe, and organized celebration this year. Improved sanitation, digital ticketing, heritage stalls, and cultural performances are planned to showcase Odisha’s vibrant culture and entrepreneurial energy.
(Source: Times of India)

For many, Bali Yatra is more than a festival — it’s a reminder of what unites the people of Cuttack: pride, tradition, and the belief that peace always returns after the storm.

Culture, Faith, and Healing

Even in moments of unrest, Cuttack’s temples, mosques, and churches remain places of solace. The Madhabananda Temple in Salipur, the Charchika Temple in Banki, and the Museum of Justice at the Barabati Fort complex continue to draw locals and tourists alike.

These places remind the city of its plural identity — a harmony that has withstood the test of time. In every prayer, every diya lit at dusk, and every child’s laughter returning to the streets, there is resilience.

The Road Ahead: What Cuttack Must Learn

Cuttack now stands at a turning point — between chaos and calm, between broken trust and rebuilding faith.

The path forward isn’t just about law and order; it’s about healing hearts and repairing systems.

• Community Dialogue: Leaders from all religious and social groups must come together for genuine conversations, not blame games. Dialogue is the first step toward lasting peace.

• Better Governance: Infrastructure repair, sanitation, and education cannot wait for the next court order. They must become daily priorities.

• Smart Policing: While curfews help restore order, proactive and inclusive policing can prevent such incidents from repeating.

• Cultural Revival: Festivals like Bali Yatra show that Cuttack’s greatest strength lies in its shared culture. Reviving these moments of unity is essential.

• Media Responsibility: In the age of social media, misinformation spreads faster than facts. Responsible reporting and verified updates are crucial to maintaining peace.

Cuttack’s story is not one of defeat. It is a story of endurance — of people who fall, fight, and rise again. The city that once sent ships across oceans will surely find a way to navigate through its internal storms too.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1. Why was Cuttack under a 36-hour shutdown?
Cuttack was placed under a 36-hour curfew following violent clashes between two groups during a Durga Puja idol immersion procession in the Dargha Bazaar area. The move aimed to restore law and order and prevent further unrest.

Q2. How many people were injured in the violence?
Over 25 people, including police officers and civilians, were injured in the clashes that broke out on Sunday night.

Q3. Why was social media banned?
The Odisha government suspended internet and social media services for 24 hours to stop the spread of rumors, fake news, and provocative messages that could escalate the situation.

Q4. What is the current situation in Cuttack?
As of now, peace has largely been restored, but security remains tight in sensitive areas. Normal life is gradually returning, and shops and schools are reopening under police monitoring.

Q5. What is Bali Yatra, and why is it significant?
Bali Yatra is a historic festival celebrated in Cuttack to honor ancient Odia traders who sailed to Southeast Asia centuries ago. It’s a symbol of Odisha’s maritime heritage, cultural pride, and community unity.

Q6. What lessons can be learned from this incident?
The Cuttack violence highlights the need for stronger community relations, better policing, and civic awareness. More than anything, it’s a reminder that peace must be protected by empathy and mutual respect.

In Closing: The Silver City Still Shines

Cuttack’s recent unrest may have dimmed the city’s lights for a while, but not its soul. From the banks of the Mahanadi River to the lanes of Choudhury Bazaar, the rhythm of life is slowly returning — vendors opening their shops, children cycling to school, and devotees offering prayers for peace.

As the city prepares for Bali Yatra and new beginnings, one thing remains certain — Cuttack will rise again, stronger, wiser, and more united than ever.

Because no matter how dark the night, the Silver City always finds its light again.

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