Bhubaneswar, Dec. 25 -- The alleged rape and murder of a minor girl in Chandbali of Bhadrak district has triggered sharp political reactions, with the Biju Janata Dal (BJD) and the Congress jointly calling for a Chandbali bandh on Thursday, even as Chief Minister Mohan Majhi announced a financial assistance of Rs 10 lakh for the victim's family.

Sources reported that the bandh will be observed from 6 am to 12 noon, and will demand justice for the victim and swift action in the case.

As of this morning, normal life in Chandbali was disrupted during the shutdown, with shops remaining closed and vehicular movement affected in several areas. Protesters staged demonstrations at College Square, where incidents of burning were reported as part...