Bandh hits life in City BJP, BJD trade barbs over student's death

Normal life was hit across the City Thursday following the 12-hour 'Odisha Bandh' enforced by Congress, and seven other Opposition parties, over the death of a Fakir Mohan Autonomous College student who set herself a blaze after being denied justice in an alleged sexual harassment case.

- MANOJ KUMAR JENA, OP

Since early morning hours, Congress and various Left party activists blocked roads at various junctions in the City and held demonstration at the railway station.

Offices and business establishments wore a deserted look, while vehicles on the NH-16 were stranded for a long time as the protestors, waving party flags and placards, squatted on the road and burnt tyres.

Schools, colleges, other educational institutes also remained closed along with courts and government establishments.

However, vehicles carrying essential services and ambulances were not stopped during the bandh period.

Heavy police presence was seen on all major roads in the City during the day to maintain law and order and disperse protestors. At many places, motorists were seen arguing with the agitators.

At Lower PMG Square, several Congress leaders and activists, led by OPCC president Bhakta Charan Das fought with the police when they were prevented from marching towards the state Assembly. Many activists were taken into custody for defying prohibitory orders.

The disruption in public transport brought miseries to commuters.

Sharing his experience, a City resident who was stopped by a group of agitators while travelling to a hospital due to an emergency, said, “We completely support the protest. But common people shouldn't pay the price. I had an urgent appointment with a doctor, but I won't be able to make it on time if I am not allowed to go by the protestors.”

PRESS TRUST OF INDIA