Balangir, Sep 15: Normal life was disrupted in parts of Balangir district in Odisha on Monday as locals staged a 12-hour bandh demanding Notified Area Council (NAC) status for Lathor town and fulfillment of three civic demands.

The protest, which began at 6 AM and would continue till 6 PM, saw widespread participation from residents, local organizations, and youth groups.

Shops, markets, government offices, and private institutions remained closed, while vehicular movement was halted across the town.

Protesters blocked key roads and held peaceful demonstrations, urging the state government to recognize Lathor’s growing population and infrastructure needs. Holding placards and banners, the agitators staged demonstrations at different places in the town to press their demand.

The bandh was triggered by the recent exclusion of Lathor from the state’s updated NAC list, despite earlier assurances from officials. Protesters claimed the omission was a betrayal and warned of intensified agitation if their demands were not met.

The three-point demand includes NAC recognition, improved civic amenities, and better administrative infrastructure. Essential services like healthcare and emergency transport were exempted from the bandh.

Local leaders emphasized that Lathor deserves NAC status due to its rapid urbanization and strategic importance in the region.

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