Maoists observe bandh in Odisha’s Rayagada, block road by cutting trees

Rayagada: Maoists are today observing a bandh in Odisha’s Rayagada demanding unemployment allowance of Rs 3,000 and an increment allowance of Rs 3,000 for members of the Scheduled Tribes (ST) and Scheduled Castes (SC) communities residing in the district.

The rebels have put up posters and banners at Pankalguri near Hanumantpur under Chandrapur block of the district. They also resorted to road blockade by felling trees, thereby affecting movement of vehicles.

The poster released by the Maoist group alleges that the underprivileged individuals in the state are being denied access to essential services such as education, healthcare, and housing. It emphasized the need for the government to rectify these alleged discrepancies and ensure the welfare of the marginalized population.

Furthermore, the Maoists demanded the establishment of Adarsha Schools and hospitals in every panchayat within the district.

Maoists’ other demands are fair distribution of forest land among impoverished individuals, accurate valuation of forest produce, end to the sale of alcohol in the region, and the fulfillment of demands put forth by Anganwadi workers and teachers.