12-Hour Bandh In Jeypore Protest Demands Revival Of Paper Mill

Jeypore (Koraput): The Jeypore Action Committee on Wednesday observed a 12-hour bandh in Jeypore town demanding the immediate revival and proper functioning of the long-shut paper mill, considered the only major industrial unit in the district.

The bandh, which began at 6 AM and continued till 6 PM, affected normal life across the town. Offices, schools, colleges, markets, and business establishments remained closed, while vehicular movement was disrupted due to road blockades staged by protesters at several key locations.

The protest received support from various social, commercial, and political organizations. Demonstrators expressed concern over the worsening financial condition of employees and support staff who have been struggling due to the prolonged closure of the paper mill. Thousands of families dependent on the industry are reportedly facing severe hardship because of unpaid salaries and pending dues over the years.

The Biju Janata Dal (BJD) also extended support to the bandh call. Party convener and former minister Rabi Narayan Nanda, along with BJD working president Durga Mishra, appealed to party workers, senior leaders, councilors, and members of the women, youth, and student wings to actively participate in the movement.

“The paper mill is directly linked to the economy and livelihood of people in Koraput and nearby regions. We urge everyone to make this movement successful,” the BJD leaders said.

Meanwhile, the Jeypore Action Committee appealed to protesters to maintain peace and discipline during the democratic agitation aimed at protecting the interests of local residents. Emergency services, ambulances, and vehicles carrying examinees were exempted from the bandh restrictions.

The bandh reflects growing public anger over the continued delay in reviving the paper mill, which once served as a major source of employment and economic activity in the region.