Bhubaneswar: At least four persons, including Cuttack DCP Khilari Rishikesh Dnyandeo, sustained injuries after a violent clash broke out between two groups during the immersion procession of Goddess Durga at Haathi Pokhari near Dargah Bazaar in Cuttack late Friday night.
According to reports, the incident occurred when the medha (Idol) of the Jhanjirimangala Bhagabat Puja Committee was passing through the Haathi Pokhari area. A dispute over a song led to heated arguments, which quickly escalated into violence. Members of both groups allegedly hurled stones and glass bottles at each other.
While the Jhanjirimangala medha was stalled due to the disturbance, the Rausapatna medha proceeded ahead. However, as it approached the Dargah Bazaar police station, a group of local youths reportedly attacked some of the participants in the procession, further aggravating the situation.
Four people were injured in the attack, including DCP Khilari Rishikesh Dnyandeo. One person is said to be in critical condition. In addition, several parked motorcycles were damaged, and roadside stalls were vandalised in the chaos.
With tensions running high, the Rausapatna medha was brought to a halt, prompting local residents to stage a protest at the site. Police had to resort to a lathi charge to disperse the mob and restore order.
The situation was brought under control later in the night. On Saturday morning, the immersion procession resumed peacefully under tight security.
