Bhubaneswar Bandh evokes Mixed Response

Small traders and vendors in Bhubaneswar observed a dawn-to-dusk Bhubaneswar Bandh on Wednesday. They were protesting against the entry of big companies, including Reliance, into retail business. It could be recalled that traders have forced many "Reliance Fresh" outlets to close their shutters in the recent months.

Major markets and daily haats gave a deserted look, as retailers and wholesalers remained closed. However, medicine stores and petrol pumps were opened throughout the day. There has been a mixed response to the Bandh Call. While the bandh was total in the heart of the city, it had little impact in other areas. The Bandh was called by Orissa Byabasayee Mahasangha.

Despite the protests from the traders and vendors, Reliance is planning to go ahead with their plans to set up new retail units. In the past few weeks, the company has succeeded in opening a few outlets. the company reportedly plans to set up 18 Reliance Fresh outlets in the twin cities Bhuabneswar and Cuttack.