8 held; internet suspension extended

Eight people were arrested Monday in connection with the violence in Cuttack, where a 12-hour bandh was underway amid heavy security deployment with prohibitory orders in place, officials said.

- PNN & AGENCIES

Speaking to reporters, Commissioner of Police S Dev Datta Singh said three cases were registered and eight people were arrested in connection with Sunday's attack on police by Vishva Hindu Parishad (VHP) activists.

"The situation is under control," he said.

Senior police officer Amarendra Panda and Cuttack DCP Khilari Rishikesh Dnyandeo were among the 25 people injured in the attack. Panda was admitted to the ICU of the SCB Medical College and Hospital (SCBMCH), officials said.

Police said raids were continuing in different parts of the Millennium City after some of the 'mischief mongers' were identified through CCTV footage.

Clashes broke out in the early hours of Saturday near Haathi Pokhari in Dargha Bazar area as locals objected to loud music being played in immersion processions. What started as an argument soon escalated, leading to the hurling of stones and glass bottles.

Six people, including Dnyandeo, were injured in the clashes.