‘Mamata- a provocative leader’: Odisha Minister slams Bengal CM for her ‘Cuttack is burning’ remark

A fresh political controversy erupted on Thursday after West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee alleged that ‘Cuttack is burning’ and accused the BJP government in Odisha and its affiliates of triggering ‘communal violence’ in the city.

Her remarks drew sharp condemnation from the Odisha government, with Housing and Urban Development Minister Krushna Chandra Mohapatra flagging her remarks for being bereft of the ground reality of the Millennium City.

Mamata’s Comment Draws Fire

During a public interaction in Kolkata, Mamata Banerjee said, “Cuttack is burning today. The BJP government and its affiliates, like the Bajrang Dal, have been involved in communal riots there. I am sorry to say, but this government will end the country one day.”

The comment quickly went viral and sparked a strong backlash in Odisha, where political leaders accused her of provoking unrest. The statement also triggered protests by BJP workers in several parts of Cuttack, demanding an apology from the Bengal CM.

Odisha Minister Terms Mamata A ‘Provocative Leader’

Responding to her remarks, Minister Krushna Chandra Mohapatra said Mamata Banerjee “does not know what to speak” and alleged that she herself has “encouraged riots” in West Bengal.

“She is a person who does not know what to speak. I doubt if she even understands what she says. She has no clue about the situation in Cuttack. Rather, it is she who spreads riots across West Bengal,” Mohapatra said, terming Banerjee “a provocative leader, not a responsible administrator.”’

He added that the Mohan Majhi-led BJP government “does not tolerate any anti-social or communal activity” and has dealt strictly with those involved in the recent disturbances in Cuttack.

“The Chief Minister has repeatedly stressed that no one will be spared. No matter where they hide, they will be found and punished,” Mohapatra stated.

ALSO READ: Cuttack clash: Odisha CM reviews law-and-order situation, warns antisocial elements

Police Investigation Continues In Cuttack Clash

Meanwhile, the Commissionerate Police, assisted by central paramilitary forces, has intensified its probe into the October 3 group clash that broke out during the Durga idol immersion in Dargha Bazaar.

According to officials, two ACPs and three IICs have been deployed in the affected areas, with large contingents conducting search and area domination exercises.

Police have so far arrested 29 people in connection with the incident, in which four civilians and several police personnel, including the DCP, were injured. The city had been placed under a 36-hour curfew and a 48-hour internet suspension, both of which were later lifted after normalcy returned.