UditVani, Jamshedpur : A statewide shutdown called by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) to protest against the alleged police lathi-charge on tribal demonstrators in Chaibasa has paralysed normal life in West Singhbhum and adjoining Seraikela-Kharsawan districts today.
In Chaibasa town, BJP workers took to the streets early in the morning to enforce the bandh, compelling shopkeepers in areas like Tambo, Sadar Bazaar, Bus Stand, and Shaheed Park to down their shutters.
Petrol pumps and commercial establishments that opened briefly were later forced to close by protesting party members.
Vehicular movement on major roads and highways remained disrupted, with long-distance buses staying off the roads.
Protesters lit tyres and blocked the National Highway (NH-320D) at several points, particularly near Sonua, Jagannathpur, and Chakradharpur, bringing traffic to a standstill.
The bandh also saw incidents of arson and road blockades in several areas as BJP workers demonstrated against what they termed as police brutality on tribals demanding the lifting of the “No Entry” restrictions.
According to reports, emergency services remained unaffected, though normal business and transportation were severely impacted throughout the day.
Security forces have been deployed in sensitive areas to prevent any untoward incident, while senior officials are monitoring the situation closely.
