Bhubaneswar: The Bharat Bandh called by the Samyukt Kisan Morcha and joint trade unions, in solidarity with the ongoing farmer protests, witnessed a lukewarm response in Odisha on Friday. While the strike garnered minimal attention in the state capital, Bhubaneswar, its impact varied in other regions such as Angul and Rourkela.
In Bhubaneswar, the movement of vehicles remained unaffected, and train services operated as usual, reflecting a subdued response to the strike. However, trade unions plan to organize a joint rally in the city later in the afternoon to draw attention to the challenges faced by the protesting farmers.
Contrastingly, Angul and Rourkela experienced some disruptions as a result of the Bharat Bandh. Bus services were temporarily halted in Rourkela, and several plants and industries in the Kalunga Industrial Estate and Rajgangpur remained closed for the day. Additionally, mining operations came to a standstill in Kalta, Bimalagarh, and Koida, further underscoring the impact of the strike in these areas.
The farmers’ demands, including a hike in the Minimum Support Price (MSP), farm loan waivers, and the implementation of the recommendations of the Swaminathan National Commission on Farmers, continue to echo across the country. Their steadfast determination to secure their rights and livelihoods remains at the forefront of the ongoing protests.
As the Bharat Bandh unfolds with varying responses across different regions, it underscores the complexities surrounding the farmers’ agitation and the broader issues of agrarian distress. The resilience of the farming community and their unwavering commitment to seeking justice serve as a poignant reminder of the challenges facing agriculture in India.
