Normal life came to a halt in Nabarangpur district on Wednesday as the local unit of the Congress enforced a 12-hour bandh protesting alleged errors in school textbooks for Classes I to VIII.
The bandh, observed from 6 am to 6 pm, disrupted transport and business activities across the region.
Congress workers blocked roads at Majhiguda and Chaunriaguda intersections, demanding the resignation of School and Mass Education Minister Nityananda Gond. Vehicular movement slowed on several routes, and shops remained closed, though emergency services such as ambulances and fire vehicles operated normally.
The Nabarangpur District Congress Committee (DCC) alleged that the textbook errors reflected serious negligence by the state government and could harm students’ learning. DCC president Lipika Majhi said the issue had alarmed parents and teachers, claiming that the publication of flawed textbooks undermined education quality.
Majhi demanded accountability from the government, noting that Minister Gond represents the Umarkot Assembly constituency in the district. “People expected quality education for their children, but the errors have disappointed everyone. We demand his resignation, and those responsible must face action,” she said.
She added that some textbook content was inappropriate and failed to meet academic standards. The bandh remained largely peaceful, though commuters faced inconvenience due to road blockades. Police deployed personnel at sensitive points to maintain order.
