Southern Odisha Stands Still: Call for Localized Job Recruitment Sparks Bandh

A 12-hour bandh, organized by the Joint Action Committee in southern Odisha, affected daily life in four districts, demanding local recruitment for government jobs. The protest, supported by multiple organizations and political parties, highlights the region's struggle for equitable employment opportunities amidst state-level hiring practices.

A widespread bandh disrupted daily activities across Koraput, Nabarangpur, Malkangiri, and Rayagada in southern Odisha on Friday. The Joint Action Committee, alongside 45 local organizations and political parties BJD and Congress, spearheaded the protest, demanding local recruitment for government jobs.

The demonstration, which lasted from 6 am to 6 pm, led to the closure of businesses and educational institutions, with both public transport and private vehicles staying off the roads. Business leaders, transport associations, and community groups showed strong support, underscoring the unified call for district-level employment opportunities.

Political figures like Congress's Jeypore MLA Taraprasad Bahinipati and BJD's Pradeep Majhi criticized state-level job recruitment for contributing to employment inequities. The bandh illuminated ongoing frustrations over perceived neglect of local needs by previous administrations as the state government reviews the proposal for change.

(With inputs from agencies.)