Jharkhand Bandh: BJP Calls Statewide Shutdown Over Student Lathi-Charge

The BJP has called for a Jharkhand Bandh across the state to protest the alleged use of tear gas and lathi-charge against students in Ranchi during their march. BJP workers have taken to the streets, urging shopkeepers to shut their establishments, while some protesters have reportedly burned tyres. The party says essential services should remain unaffected during the shutdown. The BJP had also supported the students’ march and attempted to surround the Chief Minister’s residence in Ranchi, following which several party leaders and workers, including Leader of Opposition Babulal Marandi, were detained by police. BJP workers are demanding that Chief Minister Hemant Soren resign over the action against students and calling for the government to accept their demands. Meanwhile, BJP MPs in Delhi are preparing to hold a demonstration in the Parliament complex, bringing the Jharkhand student issue to the national stage. Reports indicate that the bandh has had a significant impact in Ranchi, with several markets and shops remaining closed.