Jagdalpur: The Bastar region is now experiencing the effects of the shutdown call given in connection with some recent events, the murder of the journalist Mukesh Chandrakar, the martyrdom of eight security personnel in the Naxal blast, and fightings on the conversion issue in Bade Bodel. The shutdown enjoys massive support, which is especially noticeable in the Bastar Chamber of Commerce.
Local groups, especially the Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) and the tribal people, continue happening on the roads from the morning, demanding that the shops and offices close in protest. The people in Bastar have turned out in numbers, both large and small, to demonstrate and voice their concerns about issues that have led to the disturbances in the affected areas.
The most recent incident regarding the murder of journalist Mukesh Chandrakar received attention from the local community and calls for justice and protection of journalists. Moreover, the recent Naxal attack involved the killing of eight security personnel, and thus people have tended to have their complaints amplified, demanding more effective counter-insurgency efforts in the region.
Another reason for the shutdown is the increasing concern over the confrontations arising from the alleged convert controversy in Bade Bodel that escalated to physical confrontation several days ago. Such occurrence has sparked cordial relationship issues within communities, and thereby, the need to engage in discussions whenever such a topic is at large is important.
The shutdown call is an attempt to focus on these issues and make authorities act quickly, making the region safe and fair for everyone. What emerges as a demand in the Bastar bandh is the call from multiple organizations and communities that something has to be done, and someone has to be held accountable. Throughout the day, tension is palpable; security forces are on high alert to avert any negatively charged events.
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