Balangir, Jan 28: A statewide bandh called by farmers’ organizations across Odisha had a significant impact in Balangir on Tuesday. While an eight-hour shutdown was observed in other parts of the state, Balangir witnessed a 12-hour bandh. Farmer leaders enforced the shutdown by picketing at various locations across the district.

During the bandh, a group of farmer leaders and supporters entered a shopping mall in Balangir and created a ruckus. They questioned the mall authorities for keeping the establishment open despite prior notice of the bandh. Reports suggest that some items were thrown, and people present inside were forced to vacate the premises. Subsequently, the mall manager shut down the store.

The bandh is being organized under the banner of the United Farmers’ Forum, with participation from more than seven farmers’ organizations along with other allied groups.