Protest in Odisha demanding 24-hour healthcare

Tension prevailed in Deogarh district on Tuesday during a 12-hour bandh called to press for the provision of round-the-clock healthcare services. The protest witnessed dramatic scenes after agitators allegedly stopped the vehicle of the Sub-Collector and attempted to damage it by hitting the window with sticks, prompting immediate police intervention.

The bandh was organised by the District Women’s Unity Forum, which accused the administration of ignoring repeated demands to introduce 24-hour medical services at the old Deogarh hospital. As part of the protest, demonstrators blocked National Highway-49 at Rajamunda Square, leading to major traffic disruptions and inconvenience to commuters.

Police swung into action, detaining several protesters to clear the roadblock, after which traffic movement was restored. Despite the intervention, a tense atmosphere continued to prevail in parts of the district, with additional police forces deployed to maintain law and order.

The protesting organisation alleged that despite multiple representations and appeals to the authorities, no concrete steps had been taken to upgrade healthcare facilities in the district. They said the bandh was a last resort to draw attention to the long-pending issue.

Meanwhile, one of the protesters alleged unnecessary police intervention while people were peacefully pressing their demands. Blaming the government for ignoring the issue, he also warned that the agitation could intensify if corrective steps are not taken.