Odisha’s Deogarh district witnessed tension on Wednesday as the Zilla Mahila Ekata Mancha organised a bandh that quickly turned violent.
Protesters demanded round-the-clock healthcare services at the old district hospital and, during the agitation, they allegedly attacked the vehicle of the sub-collector.
Initially, agitators blocked National Highway 49 near Ambedkar Chhak, causing major traffic disruption. Consequently, police rushed to the spot and cleared the road. However, protesters returned soon after and blocked the highway again. As a result, authorities detained several agitators during the second intervention.
Meanwhile, the attack on the sub-collector’s vehicle escalated tension in the area. Police acted swiftly, detained those involved, and restored order. Following their intervention, normal traffic movement resumed. Nevertheless, shops and business establishments across Deogarh town remained closed due to the bandh, affecting daily life.
Furthermore, protesters warned that they would intensify their agitation if the demand for 24-hour healthcare services was ignored. In response, police strengthened their presence in sensitive areas to prevent further unrest.
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