Mixed response to BJP's strike call in Pondy

Puducherry, May 2 (UNI) The strike call given by the BJP to protest the ''failure'' of the United Progressive Alliance government at the Centre to curb price rise of essential commodities evoked mixed response in the Union Territory today.

Normal life was affected with all the private buses remaining off the roads and most of the shops closed. However, the Puducherry Government and Tamil Nadu Government buses were plying in less numbers with police escort. Few three-wheeler passenger tempos, autorickshaws and taxis were also seen plying.

However, all the textile mills and government offices, both central and state, were functioning as usual.

Police have made elaborate security arrangements to prevent any untoward incident and pickets have been posted at all vulnerable points.

Meanwhile, over 50 BJP workers, led by National Council member Swaminathan, were arrested when they put up a road blockade near Indira Gandhi statue here.

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