Bhubaneswar, Feb. 4 -- Athagarh observed a complete 12-hour shutdown (Bandh) on Wednesday following a call by the Athagarh Zilla Kriyanusthan Committee (AZKC), demanding district status for the region in Cuttack. The bandh was enforced from 6.00 AM to 6.00 PM, significantly disrupting normal life.

According to sources, the 12-hour Bandh is being observed in Athagarh, demanding district status for the town, under the banner of a local outfit. A protest demonstration was staged by the committee at Athagarh-Chandbali Chhak of the town.

Protesters staged demonstrations at the Chhak on state highway (SH-65), while shops and markets remained closed and vehicular movement was halted. The Bandh received strong support from various local organis...