Bhubaneswar, 25 March (H.S.): Normal life came to a standstill in Odisha’s Malkangiri district on Wednesday as the district unit of the Indian National Congress observed a 12-hour bandh, demanding urgent government intervention to address a severe LPG shortage and the ongoing paddy procurement crisis.

The shutdown, which began in the morning, led to a complete halt in vehicular movement across the district. Markets, educational institutions, and government offices remained largely closed, while Congress workers staged demonstrations and picketing at key junctions, urging public support for their demands.

Residents across both rural and urban areas continue to face acute shortages of LPG cylinders, reportedly due to supply disruptions and broader global factors. Many households have struggled to secure timely refills, with long queues reported in Malkangiri town. The shortage has also impacted local businesses, particularly hotels and eateries, which are grappling with irregular cooking gas supplies.

Farmers in the district are facing a parallel crisis. For nearly two months, large quantities of harvested paddy have remained unsold in procurement centres despite the issuance of tokens. Delays in lifting the stocks by government agencies have left the produce exposed to the elements. Recent unseasonal rainfall has further aggravated the situation, damaging paddy stocks and causing significant financial losses.

The issue has intensified political tensions, with Congress leaders criticising the state government for what they described as administrative failure and neglect of public welfare in one of Odisha’s most underdeveloped and tribal-dominated districts.

Addressing protesters, local Congress leaders said the twin crises have severely affected both households and farmers, calling the bandh a strong message to the government to take immediate corrective measures.

Demonstrators demanded regular LPG supply, immediate lifting of pending paddy stocks, compensation for damaged produce, and a streamlined procurement process across mandis.

The bandh remained largely peaceful, with no major untoward incidents reported. Emergency services and essential activities were allowed to function during the protest.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Monalisa Panda