Bhubaneswar, 11 July (H.S.): The Odisha Drivers’ Mahasangha has announced a temporary relaxation of its ongoing state-wide protest to allow smooth participation in Congress leader Rahul Gandhi’s rally scheduled for tomorrow in Bhubaneswar.
The announcement was made by the union’s president, Prashant Menduli, through a video message on Thursday evening . Menduli stated that the decision was taken following appeals from several senior Congress leaders, including Odisha Pradesh Congress Committee (OPCC) president Bhakta Charan Das.
“In view of Rahul Gandhi’s public rally in Bhubaneswar, we have decided not to obstruct any vehicle or driver heading to the capital to participate in the event,” said Menduli. “All drivers associated with the Mahasangha are requested not to block any Congress vehicles across the state during this period,” he added.
He further clarified that while the strike will continue, the union is allowing this one-day relaxation solely for the smooth conduct of the Congress event.
The rally, titled ‘Samvidhan Bachao Samavesh’ (Save Constitution Meeting), will be addressed by All India Congress Committee (AICC) president Mallikarjun Kharge, Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi, and other senior leaders. Prior to the rally, a roadshow will be held from Bhubaneswar Airport Square to Jaydev Vihar, after which the leaders will proceed to the Baramunda Ground for the main event.
Security has been tightened across the capital in anticipation of large crowds and high-profile attendees.
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Hindusthan Samachar / Monalisa Panda
