Bhubaneswar: The Adivasi Ekta Manch is observing a 48-hour shutdown at Rairangpur sub-division in Mayurbhanj, protesting the arrest of villagers involved in a clash with police.
The shutdown has brought all offices, shops, markets, and educational institutions to a standstill, with vehicles also off the roads.
A few days ago, Binjhua village in Tiring police station and Bahalda block of Mayurbhanj district turned into a battlefield. A minority youth attempted to molest a tribal minor girl, sparking outrage among her relatives and villagers, leading to a violent clash with police. The confrontation escalated into a fierce battle between protesters and police. As a result, 13 police personnel were injured in the mishap, according to sources.
The police arrested 34 villagers and produced them in court. The Adivasi Ekta Manch protested, demanding their unconditional release, and staged a two-day dharna in front of the Bamanghati Sub-Divisional Officer’s office. As the administration failed to take action, the outfit gave a 48-hour ultimatum and called off the protest. They have now staged a shutdown in Bamanghati sub-division from March 20, 6 am to March 22, 6 am, demanding the release of the arrested women and men.
