Archive · 16 Jan 2026
Odisha Clash Leaves Injuries, Internet Shutdown
There was a big fight between two groups in a town called Sundargarh in Odisha, India.
Many people got hurt, and the government decided to turn off the internet for a day to stop false information from spreading.
They also said that no big groups of people can gather together to keep the peace.
The fight happened in a market area, and the internet will be back on the next day at the same time.
Schools and shops will also be closed to keep everyone safe.
A communal clash between two communities in Sundargarh town, Odisha, left at least 12 people, including police personnel, injured.
Internet services were withdrawn for 24 hours starting from 6 PM on Thursday to prevent the spread of misinformation.
A prohibitory order under Section 163 of BNS was enforced, banning assemblies of four or more people and closing educational institutions and commercial establishments.
The clash occurred in the Regent Market area around 2.30 PM and involved stone-pelting and the use of sharp weapons.
The measures were taken to avert a possible breach of peace and prevent the circulation of inflammatory messages on social media.
- Who
- Two communities in Sundargarh town, Odisha
- What
- Communal clash resulting in injuries and internet shutdown
- When
- Thursday afternoon (around 2.30 PM), internet shutdown from 6 PM Thursday to 6 PM Friday
- Where
- Sundargarh town, Odisha, specifically the Regent Market area
- Why
- To prevent the spread of misinformation and rumours, and to maintain peace
- Location
- Sundargarh town, Odisha
- Injured
- At least 12, including police personnel
- Internet Shutdown Duration
- 24 hours (6 PM Thursday to 6 PM Friday)
- Prohibitory Order
- Section 163 of BNS
- Clash Location
- Regent Market area
- Reason for Internet Shutdown
- Prevent spread of misinformation and rumours
- Closures
- All schools, colleges, and commercial establishments (except medical stores, milk vans, and emergency services) in Sundargarh municipality area
- Police Deployment
- Ten platoons (300 personnel)
Sources
Communal violence erupts in Odisha town, internet services withdrawn
Beef rumours spark clashes in Odisha town; internet suspended
Sundargarh clash: Prohibitory orders imposed, internet suspended, educational institutes shut
Two Groups Clash in Odisha's Sundargarh, Internet Suspended, Over 20 Injured - What Led to Violence
Odisha: 12 injured in clashes in Sundargarh