Shutdown Call by Organizations
A 12-hour Bharat Bandh was observed across the country on Thursday over the demand for a caste-based census and reservation based on population. The bandh was called by Bharat Mukti Morcha and Rashtriya Pichhda Varg Morcha, with support from various social groups.

Major Impact Seen in Bolangir
The impact of the bandh was clearly visible in Bolangir town of Odisha. Shops, markets, schools, colleges, government and private offices remained closed. Vehicular movement also came to a complete halt as protestors enforced the shutdown.

Protesters Stage Road Blockades
Members of SC, ST, and OBC Coordination Committee actively participated in the bandh in Bolangir. Protesters staged picketing and blocked roads at several places, disrupting traffic movement and causing inconvenience to the general public.

Demand for Caste-Based Census
The core demand of the protestors is the implementation of a caste-based census and reservation policies based on population data. They argue that proper enumeration is necessary to ensure fair representation and benefits for backward communities.

Leaders Voice Concerns
OBC leader Santunu Bhoi stated that the government has failed to address the concerns of OBC communities despite repeated demands. He emphasized that reservation should be provided according to population and warned that the agitation may intensify in the coming days.

Similarly, Saroj Kumar Meshwa, president of the SC, ST and OBC Coordination Committee, said that people in Bolangir have extended full support to the bandh. He alleged that the government is neglecting OBC communities and demanded accurate representation in the ongoing census.

Heavy Police Deployment
To prevent any untoward incidents, heavy police force was deployed across the town. Authorities remained alert to ensure law and order during the bandh.

Limited Impact in Other Areas
While Bolangir town witnessed significant disruption, the bandh had limited or no impact in other parts of the district.

Public Faces Inconvenience
Due to road blockades and closure of services, daily life was affected, and many residents faced difficulties in commuting and accessing essential services.