Cuttack: All shops, educational institutions and petrol stations downed their shutters and transport vehicles remained off the road Monday in response to a ‘dawn-to-dusk bandh’ called by Bharatiya Janata Party in Cuttack seeking solidarity with the people against the state government’s decision to limit height of Durga idols to 4-ft and order closure of puja pandals from all sides.
Braving heavy rain several BJP leaders under the direction of Cuttack City BJP president Lalatendu Bodu picketed at major junctions, roads and institutions obstructing road traffic. People with religious sentiments voluntarily extended support to the BJP-sponsored bandh call as the decision of the administration in matters of Durga idol height and pandal construction was seen as Government’s interference with people’s belief and faith.
All business activities, schools and colleges, courts and private establishments in the city were shut down as a mark of solidarity with the saffron party.
Party workers were spotted picketing at Jhola Sahi, Chowdhury Bazar, Chandi Chowk, Biju Patnaik Chowk, Nayasadak, Bidanasi, Buxibazar and CDA. The police also arrested a few BJP workers in anticipation of law and order situation and let them off after sometime.
“Even the Lord of Rain has extended support to the bandh. All students, traders and locals have voluntarily supported the shutdown in view of the Mother Goddess’ celebrations. A handful of officers running the state cannot cow us down by imposing restrictions in matters of people’s faith. The people have the full support and blessings for the party which is spearheading their religious cause,” said Bodu.
