Finance
At least six people were injured, including Cuttack DCP Khilari Rishikesh Dnyandeo, when a violent conflict broke out between two groups during the Goddess Durga immersion procession at Haathi Pokhari near Dargah Bazaar in Cuttack on Friday night.
According to accounts, the event occurred while the medha (idol) of the Jhanjirimangala Bhagabat Puja Committee was moving through the Haathi Pokhari locality. A disagreement over a music sparked heated confrontations, which quickly escalated into violence. Members of both groups allegedly threw stones and glass bottles at one another.
While the Jhanjirimangala medha was halted due to the commotion, the Rausapatna medha continued on. However, as the procession approached the Dargah Bazaar police station, a group of local youths reportedly attacked some of the participants, escalating the situation.
The incident left more than six individuals injured, including DCP Khilari Rishikesh Dnyandeo. One person is reported to be in critical condition. In addition, several parked motorcycles were damaged, and roadside stalls were vandalized during the turmoil.
With tensions rising, the Rausapatna medha was halted, provoking a protest by local inhabitants at the site. Police had to use a lathi charge to disperse the mob and restore order.
The situation was brought under control later that night. On Saturday morning, the immersion procession resumed quietly despite strict security.
