VHP bandh call hits normal life in Odisha’s steel city

Odisha Sun Times Bureau
Rourkela, Jul 16:

A 12-hour dawn-to-dusk bandh called by the Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) protesting the circulation of an objectionable photo in WhatsApp which led to a group clash, affected normal life in Odisha’s steel city Rourkela today.

Though two-wheelers were seen plying in the city, town buses remained off the roads. Educational institutions, shops, business establishments and petrol pumps remained closed due to the bandh call, sources said.

VHP activists were seen blocking roads at several junctions by burning tyres. As many as 50 activists were detained by police, sources added.

In order to prevent untoward situation during the bandh, 30 platoons of police force were deployed in the city.

“In view of the bandh, we have intensified patrolling in the city. Several lifting parties have been deployed for detention of those creating law and order situation,” said DSP PK Mishra.

A peace committee meeting was held under the chairmanship of Sundargarh district collector last evening to restore normalcy in the city. The members of the committee reportedly agreed to maintain peace.

Notably, two communities had clashed at Nala Road here and threw stones at each other on Thursday night over circulation of an objectionable photo in WhatsApp hurting the sentiments a particular community.