Mixed response to nation-wide agitation in Bilaspur

Bilaspur, Aug 20 (UNI) The nation-wide strike called by the Central Leftist Organisations today evoked a mixed response in Bilaspur division.

The banks, except State Bank of India, were closed. Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL) employees were on ''pen down strike'' while insurance companies, state electricity board officials, Guru Ghasidas University employees and medical representatives also joined the strike.

The strike also affected the coal industry as many other organisations backed it. State government officials did not support.

Under supervision of Bilaspur Trade Union Council, Bima Karamchari Sangthan, BSNL Employees Federation and several labourers and farmers organisations had demonstrated by taking out a big rally.

Meanwhile, a public meeting was organised near the collectorate.

All India Trade Union Congress, Centre of Indian Trade Unions and Kisan Sabha took part in the demonstration.

''A partial effect of strike was seen at Hasdev region, Rajnagar and Manikpur Khan region of Korba,'' said South Eastern Coal Company spokesperson.

The Indian National Trade Union Congress, however, distanced itself from the strike.

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