Bargarh: Normal life was completely paralysed in Barpali of Bargarh district due to a 12-hour bandh called by various political and social organisations today. The bandh was called demanding appointment of doctors in several vacant posts at the Community Health Centre (CHC) in Barpali.
Various educational institutions, government and private establishments, banks, shops and markets remained closed on account of the bandh. Vehicular movement was also disrupted in the area, added reports.
The agitators staged demonstration at Gandhi Chhak in the block. BJD's MLA from Bijepur, Rita Sahu while extending her support to the bandh, took part in the agitation today.
[caption id="attachment_343615" align="aligncenter" width="750"]
"I am always with the people of my region- in all ups and downs. I have already informed the concerned administration about the problems that people here are facing due to lack of doctors. A gynaecologist is likely to join today while the requirement of a medicine specialist was also raked up," said Bijepur MLA Rita Sahu, assuring that the region will soon have the required number of doctors at the CHC.
[caption id="attachment_343616" align="aligncenter" width="750"]
"We have been on strike since the last 10 days and the agitation entered 11th day today. With the support of locals and various organisations, we observed a bandh today to press for our demands," said Barpali Taxi Owners' Association secretary, Salim Khan.
"We want recruitment of doctors in Barpali hospital and if no steps in this regard are taken by tomorrow, the locals will hold a meeting to discuss the future course of action," said Secretary of Barpali Lawyers' Association, Bhabani Shankar Sahoo.