Congress calls for shutdown following Maoist massacre in Chhattisgarh

Raipur, Apr 8 (ANI): A day-long shutdown was called in Chhattisgarh by the opposition Congress Party on Thursday to protest against Tuesday's Maoist massacre that killed 76 CRPF personnel.

As per initial reports, schools were closed and public transport was hit in urban areas across the state.

Chhattisgarh Congress president Dhanendra Sahu said the strike was called to protest against the flawed policies of the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party's (BJP).

Locals welcomed the shutdown call given by the Congress.

"The environment was filled with grief. If Congress has called for this shutdown, all the people of this city are supporting it. All the shops are closed," said Anil, a local.

The ambush by over 700 Maoist ultras in Dantewada district of Chhattisgarh on Tuesday has highlighted their strong presence across large swathes of India, especially the remote rural areas. (ANI)