Jeypore: Normal life was severely affected in Jeypore town of Koraput district on Thursday as a 12-hour bandh was observed from 6 AM to 6 PM demanding the immediate reopening of the SEWA Paper Mill. The shutdown call was given by the Joint Action Committee, which has been spearheading the movement for the revival of the long-defunct industrial unit. Shops, business establishments, and markets remained closed during the bandh, while vehicular movement was disrupted across several parts of the town. Supporters of the bandh staged demonstrations and appealed to the state government to take urgent steps for restarting the paper mill, which was once considered a major source of livelihood for thousands of families in the region. The prolonged closure of the SEWA Paper Mill has reportedly pushed many workers, transporters, contractors, and small business owners into financial distress. Various labour unions and local organisations have repeatedly demanded government intervention, alleging that the delay in reviving the mill has badly affected the local economy. In recent months, several protests, rallies, and memorandum submissions have been organised before the district administration seeking a permanent solution regarding the future of the factory. The bandh passed off peacefully under police supervision, though commuters and daily passengers faced inconvenience due to reduced transport services. Protesters warned that the agitation would be intensified further if concrete steps are not taken soon to operationalise the mill. The demand for reopening the SEWA Paper Mill has emerged as a major public issue in Koraput district, with affected families hoping for early action from the authorities. Post navigation “Mahabharata” Turns Real as Two Groups Clash During Stage Show in Ganjam
