Bandh Observed In Odisha’s Jeypore Over Death Of Jeweller After GST Raid

Jeypore: Shops and business establishments remained closed in Jeypore town of Odisha’s Koraput district on Saturday following a dawn-to-dusk bandh call given by the chamber of commerce over the death of a gold trader.

The Jeypore Chamber of Commerce has called for a 12-hour shutdown of all business establishments in the town alleging that the jeweller died due to stress caused by raid conducted by GST officials at his shop.

The chamber alleged that the jeweller, identified as Haraprasad Rao, died of a heart attack after the sudden raid by GST officials during Dhanteras festival. It claimed that the raid caused excessive stress and pressure and led to Rao’s untimely demise.

However, the shutdown, which excludes schools, colleges, government offices, private institutions, and pharmacies, will also keep public transportation services operational.

The shutdown is being observed alleging high-handedness of the tax officials. The chamber demanded that the tax officials adopt more sensitive approach towards businessmen.

Rao’s brother has alleged that the raid was unnecessary and harassment, which led to his elder brother’s death.

The Chamber of Commerce has demanded action against the officials responsible.