Ranchi: A bandh called by OBC Sangharsh Samiti across five Jharkhand districts on Tuesday, seeking 27% reservation and a separate column for OBCs in the next population census, evoked a mixed response.The organisation said separate enumeration of OBC communities would help govt assess their social profile and frame policies accordingly.The shutdown was observed in Ranchi, Khunti, Gumla, Simdega and Lohardaga districts. In Ranchi, supporters gathered at Argora chowk and blocked traffic, demanding a distinct OBC column in the caste category and a survey of each OBC sub-caste during the census. The blockade disrupted vehicle movement for a few hours before police intervened and cleared the road.However, the bandh had little impact across most parts of Ranchi city, where shops, markets and offices remained open through the day. Rural pockets, including Sonahatu, also saw normal activity, with the strike largely ineffective there.The protest was more visible in Khunti district, where bandh supporters blocked several roads in Khunti town, affecting normal life. Protesters placed heavy stones and bamboos on the Ranchi-Khunti road, disrupting traffic between Khunti and Chaibasa. Markets remained closed in Khunti town, Torpa and Murhu areas, while transport services were hit.Member of Khunti Chambers of Commerce and Industries Anup Sahu said, “The bandh was successful in Khunti town as commercial activities and transportation were disrupted here.”
