Maoists call for 24-hour shutdown in Ranchi

Ranchi, Apr 12 (ANI): Maoists in Ranchi called for a day-long shutdown on Sunday forcing normal life to come to a standstill.The shutdown was called to protest the killing of two rebel commanders of the group during an encounter recently.

The impact of the shutdown was felt much in the rural areas, where the rebels reportedly have a stronghold.

"The shutdown affects a lot. Just a very few passengers come and we are scared to drive through the forest areas. Very less vehicles are plying due to which the passengers are facing a lot of inconvenience," said Vidyanand Singh, time keeper, State Transport, Ranchi.

Bus and train services were affected badly causing immense trouble to the commuters. Some even spent their day on the railway platforms.

"Due to the shutdown, we are trapped. We are facing a lot of inconvenience. We have been waiting since morning, but have no other mode of transportation till now," said Mohammad Shahid, a passenger.

Just a few selected trains were allowed to run with extensive security cover.

As a part of their crusade against the system, Maoists target policemen and government establishments.

Jharkhand has been forced to face numerous shutdowns in recent days as the rebels operate there in large swathes of the state. (ANI)