Congress leaders enforced a district-wide bandh in Malkangiri on Tuesday, pressing for several demands that included the timely supply of LPG, diesel, and petrol, procurement of paddy from local mandis, compensation for crop loss due to Kal Baisakhi storms, and refund of pending dues to farmers.
The bandh brought life to a standstill. Shops, markets, schools, and colleges remained closed. Public transport stopped, and roads across Malkangiri, Kalimela, Mathili, and Korukonda wore a deserted look. Congress workers staged demonstrations on major roads, ensuring a complete shutdown across the district.
District Congress leaders said the bandh aimed to highlight farmers’ grievances and demand immediate government action. They accused authorities of neglecting farmers’ issues and delaying procurement and compensation.
The bandh was led by District Congress Vice President Bhima Barse, District Secretary Padma Pangi, Kisan Cell President Dasharath Duruka, SC Cell President Pranakrushna Mandal, former President Gobinda Patra, Zilla Parishad member Krishna Chandra Anagu, Municipal Council President P. Kesu Rao, ST Cell President, Irma Padiami, Block President, Lachu Kirshani, and several other leaders, including Rahim Khan, Pushpa Rani Kabasi, D. China Rao, Chhabi Das, and Prabhakar Pal.
Congress leaders said the bandh demonstrated unity among farmers and party workers. They warned that if demands remain unmet, stronger protests will follow.
