Normal life was severely disrupted in Jeypore town on Thursday as the Biju Janata Dal (BJD) observed a 12-hour bandh from 6 am to 6 pm, demanding the immediate reopening of the Jeypore Paper Mill, which has remained closed for over a year.
Bandh Impact on Daily Life
Shops, business establishments, and markets remained closed throughout the bandh period, while vehicular movement came to a complete standstill on National Highway 26 passing through the town. Emergency services, however, were exempted from the shutdown to ensure essential needs were met.
Background of the Paper Mill
Jeypore Paper Mill, popularly known as Sewa Paper Mills unit of Ballarpur Industries Limited (BILT), was established in Jeypore in 1980. Over the years, the ownership of the unit changed hands multiple times, and production had remained irregular for several years before the mill was completely shut down in March 2025.
Political Reactions and Demands
BJD leaders and supporters staged demonstrations and picketing at key junctions, urging the government to take immediate steps for the mill's revival. The protest witnessed participation from a large number of party workers and local residents who voiced their concerns about the economic impact of the closure.
Former minister Rabi Narayan Nanda emphasized that the reopening of the mill was crucial for the economic survival of thousands of families in the region. "Nearly 10,000 people are directly and indirectly dependent on the paper mill for livelihood. The prolonged closure has pushed many families into financial distress. The government must take concrete steps to revive the industry at the earliest," Nanda said.
He further alleged that despite repeated demands from locals and various organizations, and personally approaching Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, no effective initiative had been taken for the reopening of the unit.
Counter Criticism from BJP
Meanwhile, BJP leader Goutam Samantaray criticized the bandh call and accused the BJD of indulging in political drama over the issue. "The BJD ruled Odisha for over two decades, and during its tenure, no sincere effort was made to ensure the long-term revival of the paper mill. Now, they are trying to mislead people through bandh politics. The present government is committed to industrial revival and sustainable development in the region," Samantaray said.
Security Arrangements
Police personnel were deployed at sensitive locations to maintain law and order during the bandh. No untoward incident was reported till evening, ensuring the protest remained peaceful.
