Bhubaneswar, Nov. 17 -- Dhenkanal is observing a complete 12-hour bandh today following a call issued by the District Bar Association and enforced by the Electricity Consumers' Action Committee.

The shutdown, which began at 6 AM and will continue till 6 PM, was organised to protest against what local groups describe as arbitrary and exploitative practices by Tata Power TPCODL, including forcible smart meter installation, excessive billing, penalties, unannounced power cuts and failure to strengthen local infrastructure.

The bandh received widespread support from political parties, civil society groups, trade associations, intellectuals and residents across the district. By morning, all commercial establishments, government and private o...