NNKS observes Odisha bandh for farmers’ cause

Bhubaneswar: The Naba Nirman Krushak Sangathan (NNKS) on Thursday observed Odisha bandh demanding price, prestige and pension for the farmers of the state.

The effect of the shutdown call was partial in the capital city Bhubaneswar, while life crippled in other parts of the state.

The Congress and BJP have extended their moral support to Odisha bandh.

The vehicular movement affected at several places in the state.

Members of the farmer’s outfit blocked the Patia-Nandankanan road here this morning by burning tyres. Police later reached the spot and took them into preventive custody.

“We are demanding price, pension and prestige for the farmers. But this Odisha govt is coming up with KALIA Scheme which in no way is going to benefit farmers,” said an agitating farmer in Bhubaneswar.

Meanwhile, Utkal University has postponed all the examinations scheduled to be held on Thursday in view of Odisha bandh.

The Home Department of the state government on February 18 had urged NNKS to desist from the bandh saying it would affect students who will appear for their annual high school certificate examinations beginning February 22. However, the farmer’s body defied the appeal.