The eviction of Odisha traders from West Bengal’s Digha sparked sharp reactions across Odisha, prompting the West Bengal government to revisit its earlier decision. Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee’s administration held discussions with representatives from Bhogarai in Balasore and assured that the displaced traders would be permitted to stay and continue their business activities in the coastal town.

According to reports, the meeting, attended by a TMC-backed sarpanch, public representatives from Bhogarai block, local residents and traders, conveyed that the eviction order had been withdrawn. Officials informed the delegation that Odia traders who were earlier removed from their establishments in Digha would be allowed to return to their original locations. Traders, however, warned that any repeat of such action in the future would trigger strong protests.

The dispute originated near the Digha Jagannath Temple, where several Bhogarai residents reportedly ran small shops to sustain their livelihoods. Their eviction had led to widespread dissatisfaction among communities on the Odisha side of the border.

 Retaliatory Campaign in Odisha

According to reports, the West Bengal government’s initial decision to evict Odia traders from Digha triggered a retaliatory response in Chandaneswar in Balasore district. Local leaders and residents launched a campaign on Thursday titled “Bengali Mukta Abhiyaan”, calling for the removal of traders from West Bengal who had established businesses in the area.

Locals claimed that the counter-campaign added pressure on the West Bengal administration to review its earlier stance.

Also Read: Tension in Balasore after Odia traders’ evicted from Digha; irked locals ask Bengal shopkeepers to leave

Reports further indicated that the Chandaneswar campaign was called off after the West Bengal government assured that the displaced Odia traders would be reinstated in Digha. Community leaders in both regions expressed hope that the resolution would ease tensions and support peaceful coexistence among traders operating along the Odisha–West Bengal border.