Navjana Kisan Organization Calls 8-Hour Bandh in Odisha Over Dhan Mandi, PUCC and Smart Meter Issues
Odisha Shuts Down for 8 Hours as Farmers Call Statewide Bandh
: The Navjana Kisan Organization has called for an 8-hour statewide bandh in Odisha today, raising concerns over irregularities in the Dhan Mandi system, alleged harassment through PUCC fine collection, and the arbitrary installation of smart meters by Tata Power.
The bandh is being observed from 6 am to 2 pm, during which the farmers’ organization has appealed for the closure of shops, schools, and colleges across the state. The call has led to disruptions in normal life in several areas, particularly in rural and semi-urban regions.
According to the Navjana Kisan Organization, farmers are facing serious irregularities in the procurement process at Dhan Mandis, causing financial losses and delays in payments. The organization also alleged that fines are being unfairly collected from the public in the name of pollution under the Pollution Under Control Certificate (PUCC) system.
Farmers oppose fine collection in the name of pollution checks
Another major issue highlighted by the organization is the implementation of smart meters by Tata Power. The farmers’ body accused the power utility of arbitrariness and claimed that consumers are being burdened with inflated bills and lack of transparency.
The bandh has received political backing, with the Congress party expressing open support. The Odisha Pradesh Congress Committee (PCC) has instructed all district Congress committees to extend their support and participate in the protest.
Meanwhile, the ruling Biju Janata Dal (BJD) has also indirectly expressed support for the bandh, indicating sympathy with the demands raised by the farmers, though it has not formally joined the protest.
Navjana Kisan Organization leaders stated that the bandh is meant to highlight the growing distress among farmers and common people due to administrative failures and corporate dominance. They warned that if the demands are not addressed, the agitation may be intensified in the coming days.
Authorities have made arrangements to maintain law and order during the bandh, while essential services are expected to function, though some disruption in transportation and daily activities has been reported.
