Tribal Groups' Bandh Disrupts Ranchi, Major Traffic Blocked
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Synopsis
On March 22, Ranchi experienced significant disruption due to a bandh initiated by around 40 tribal groups, who are protesting against a flyover ramp near the 'Sarna Sthal' in Sirmatoli. The protest led to major road blockages and public transport cessation.
Key Takeaways
- The bandh was organized by 40 tribal organizations.
- Protesters blocked major roads in Ranchi.
- Public transport services were mostly suspended.
- Clashes occurred with local authorities during the protest.
- Schools postponed classes in anticipation of the bandh.
Ranchi, March 22 (NationPress) - The city of Ranchi was brought to a standstill on Saturday due to a bandh organized by approximately 40 tribal organizations, who are demanding the dismantling of a flyover ramp situated near the 'Sarna Sthal', a location of religious importance in the Sirmatoli locality.
Supporters of the bandh obstructed major roads at over ten sites throughout the city, effectively halting traffic.
Protesters set fire to tyres and laid logs across roads, obstructing vehicle movement.
Public transport, including auto-rickshaws, was largely non-operational in several areas, while numerous shops remained closed.
Since early morning, tribal youths representing the 'Sirmatoli Bachao Morcha' marched through the streets, shouting slogans and wielding sticks and traditional arms.
The demonstration escalated near Hinoo Chowk on the route to the airport, where bandh supporters clashed with Ranchi SDO Utkarsh Kumar as he attempted to clear the roadblock.
Key junctions, including Kokar Chowk, Kanke Road, Ratu Tilata Chowk, Doranda Bazaar, Kathal Mor, and Airport Road, were also obstructed. Even two-wheelers faced restrictions.
At Loadih on the Ranchi-Tata Road, a substantial group of demonstrators assembled, while police present at the scene chose not to use force to disband the protest.
The 'Sirmatoli Bachao Morcha' argues that the under-construction flyover ramp near the Sarna Sthal will interfere with religious ceremonies, deeming it an affront to their faith.
This protest follows a symbolic funeral procession conducted four days prior, where tribal groups criticized all tribal MLAs and ministers, including the Chief Minister, for neglecting their concerns. A torch rally was also held on Friday evening.
In preparation for the bandh, numerous schools had already rescheduled classes. Although CBSE examinations were planned in several institutions, bandh supporters announced that students and essential services would be exempt. Ambulances and pharmacies were permitted to operate.
Despite a significant police presence and magistrates deployed throughout the city, authorities took no measures to prevent the blockades. The administration has issued a warning that any attempts to take the law into their own hands will result in strict consequences.
