Bharat Bandh: Protesters stage road blockade in Odisha

Bhubaneswar: As many as ten trade unions are observing ‘Bharat Bandh’ across the country today while its effect was also felt in Odisha. Members of the unions were seen staging road blockade at various places in the state.

The protestors blocked roads at different junctions in Bhubaneswar, Rayagada, Gunupur, Berhampur, Sambalpur, Rourkela and other places holding banners and placards.

Hundreds of vehicles remained stranded on both sides of the road at such places due to the blockades.

The Odisha unit of the Indian National Congress has extended its support to the bandh call. Emergency services have been excluded from the ambit of the bandh.

The trade unions are demanding withdrawal of farmer laws and labour policies of the Central Government, cash transfer of Rs 7,500 per month for all non-income tax paying families and 10 kg free ration per person per month to all needy, stopping of privatisation of public sector.