'Bandh' against near-bankrupt coop bank

Raipur, Sep 4 (UNI) A 'bandh', called by the 'Sangharsh Samiti' of account holders of a near-bankrupt cooperative bank, had a widespread impact on the Chhattisgarh capital today.

The agitation against the city-based Indira Priyadarshini Nagrik Sahakari Bank was supported by the NCP, Shiv Sena and BJS. Thirty Sena workers and 15 account holders were arrested for forcible closure of shops.

All principal markets, cinema halls and fuel pumps were shut though medical stores and other essential services were unaffected.

The bus service remained operational. Certain persons who went to a bus stand, with the intention of paralysing services, had a dispute with operators.

Since August, no transaction has taken place at the bank. A case of cheating was registered against the manager and directors after the RBI and state government inquired into the working of different banks. The manager was arrested and jailed while the directors went underground.

The government refused to dole out Rs 15 crore for baling out the bank. The directors stand accused of several grave offences including bypassing rules while providing loans to favourites.

UNI AS-AC 1645