Maoists observe bandh, block road in several Odisha districts

Bhubaneswar: Observing a 24-hour bandh, Maoists today blocked roads and put posters in several districts of the state causing inconvenience for locals and commuters.

The extremists cut down trees for road blockade at Phurlijharan and Manikera in Kalahandi district.

The red rebels also blocked road in similar way near Kerapadar Chhak under Boden police limits in Nuapada district.

Vehicular movement was affected on NH-59 in Baliguda-Daringbadi route as Maoists resorted to road blockade last night.

Maoist posters were also found at several places in Nabarangpur district, including an under-construction chariot of Lord Jagannath in Raighar.

In the posters, the Maoists have alleged that both the Central and State Governments are not concerned about the development of SC, ST and poor people.

The rebels have also released an audio tape opposing the ongoing green hunt combing operation against the Maoists.

Meanwhile, security has been tightened in the districts to avoid any untoward incidents and maintain law and order during the bandh.