Balasore: Normal life was crippled following a 12-hour-hour bandh called by the BJP in Soro and Bahanaga blocks of Balasore district on Monday, demanding sub-division status to Soro.
Most business establishments, government and private offices remained closed during the strike. Movement of vehicles was disrupted as the protestors staged road blockades, demonstrations and picketing at several places to press for their demand.
However, national highways and railway stations were exempted from the purview of the strike.
“The town fulfils all the criteria to get a sub-divisional status. We have approached the district administration many times over the demand, yet the officials concerned have turned a deaf ear to it”, a BJP leader said, adding that the agitation will be intensified in the days to come, if necessary steps are not taken in this regard.
