Mixed response to bandh call, schools, markets remain shut

The impact of the Himachal bandh was visible in the Palampur region today, as markets in cities and suburban areas remained closed. The day-long bandh evoked a mixed response in Palampur, Baijnath and Jaisinghpur. Vehicular movement was briefly disrupted while several public and private schools and markets remained closed. However, no untoward incident was reported from any part of the region.

Shopkeepers in many areas took out processions and raised anti-government slogans. They condemned the lathi-charge on peaceful demonstrators in Shimla and Mandi. The protesters demanded action against illegal mosques coming up in many parts of the state. They said that the government should take action against unregistered migrants in the state and bring a legislation for their compulsory registration.

In Hamirpur, the ‘Bazaar Bandh’ call given by the Beopar Mandal evoked a mixed response. Most of the shops in the town remained closed till 11 am. Some members of the Beopar Mandal asked shopkeepers to close their shops and join the protest. However, the protest march remained a low-key event.

The bandh call didn’t have much impact in the surrounding areas of Hamirpur town and business activities there continued as normal. Meanwhile, members of the Vishav Hindu Parishad (VHP) addressed a gathering at the Gandhi Chowk in Hamirpur and urged people to support the cause of Sanatan Dharma.

Naresh Kapil, district coordinator of the VHP, said that they organised a symbolic bandh in support of the Devbhoomi Sangharsh Samiti and against illegal construction, which was creating a law and order problem in the state. He added that the bandh was supported by traders in all major markets of the district.

Meanwhile, the bandh call got a good response in Bilaspur and Ghumarwin.