Normal life was disrupted across parts of Jharkhand on Saturday following a statewide bandh called by various tribal organisations to protest the murder of prominent tribal leader and Pahda Raja Soma Munda.
The impact of the shutdown was particularly visible in Khunti, Ranchi and adjoining areas, where bandh supporters took to the streets early in the morning.
Protesters blocked major highways and key intersections in several districts, burning tyres and raising slogans to press their demands.
As a result, long queues of vehicles were seen on roads, while traffic movement on the Ranchi–Tata road and important routes in Khunti remained partially affected.
Public transport services were hit hard, with fewer buses operating, causing significant inconvenience to commuters. Commercial activities also suffered, as shops remained closed in many areas.
Educational institutions witnessed low attendance, with several schools and colleges reporting thin presence of students.
Tribal coordination committees and organisations described the killing of Soma Munda as an attack on a respected leader of the community. They demanded the immediate arrest of all accused and conspirators involved in the murder, along with swift justice for the victim’s family.
The organisations also called for the case to be tried in a fast-track court, adequate financial compensation to the bereaved family, and security for family members.
Warning of intensified agitation, tribal groups said the movement would be escalated if their demands were not met promptly.
In view of the bandh, the district administration and police remained on high alert. Additional security forces were deployed in sensitive areas, and senior police officials said the situation was being closely monitored.
Police appealed to protesters to maintain peace, assuring that the investigation is being carried out on a priority basis.
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