A day-long shutdown organised by tribal groups in protest against the construction of a flyover ramp near a tribal sacred site disrupted daily life in Jharkhand’s capital on Saturday.
Most shops across the city remained closed, local transportation services were severely hit, and long-distance buses were affected as well. Many passengers faced significant trouble reaching the railway station and airport.
Despite efforts by the administration and police to remove blockades in several parts of the city, bandh supporters on motorcycles roamed through the streets, compelling shopkeepers to shut down their businesses.
Over 40 tribal organisations called for the 18-hour shutdown in Ranchi to oppose the ramp construction near Sarna Sthal, a place of religious importance.
Protesters staged demonstrations at several key intersections and roads, including Lowadih Chowk in Namkum, Tilata Chowk on Ring Road, Piska More, Lalpur, Karamtoli, Argora, and other locations. They blocked roads and set tires on fire as a form of protest.
Political parties like the AJSU Party, along with various Sarna committees, lent their support to the bandh. On Friday evening, tribal organisations also held a torch rally to gather public support for the shutdown.
However, the Ranchi District Administration was prompt during the Ranchi Bandh called by some Sarna committees. Care was taken to ensure that common citizens do not face any problem in their daily work.
It was also ensured that basic services and traffic are not disrupted in emergency situations. The district administration was fully prepared to deal with any kind of unpleasant situation in the entire city. Adequate number of magistrates and police forces were deputed at all major places.
At many places, bandh supporters tried to obstruct traffic for some time. Women and children were also included in the bandh supporters. But the administrative officials and police force maintained the situation normal by discharging their duties with restraint.
Adequate number of women police personnel was also deputed to control the women bandh supporters during the bandh.
The administration ensured that essential services are not disrupted. The administration also ensured that hospitals, ambulances, medical shops and students do not face any problems due to the shutdown. Students who reached the examination centre at Purulia Road and other places did not face any problems.
Videography of the demonstrations and protesters has been done at all major places. These videographies will be observed and reviewed by the district police, after which further action will be taken as per rules as required.
