Lakhimpur Kheri violence: Maharashtra Bandh called by MVA govt today, security beefed up

The Maharashtra ruling alliance, called the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) has called for a statewide bandh today, October 11, to protest against the recent Lakhimpur Kheri incident, which lead to extreme violence in the state, resulting in the death of four farmers.

The Shiv Sena, the NCP, and the Congress, who are part of the MVA, will be protesting against the Lakhimpur Kheri violence today and thus, the Maharashtra bandh has been called across the state. The security measures across the state have also been increased due to this.

The ministers in Maharashtra condoled the death of the farmers who passed away during the Lakhimpur Kheri incident and stood in silence for two minutes during a state cabinet meeting, which was chaired by the state Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray.

After the cabinet meeting, water resources minister and Maharashtra NCP president Jayant Patil said, “The MVA has called for a statewide bandh on October 11 against the Lakhimpur Kheri violence. We appeal to people to participate in the bandh.”

All shops and services will remain closed across Maharashtra for today amid this bandh, till 4 pm. Emergency services such as medical stores, hospitals, and police stations will remain functional during this time. Citizens are advised to only step out if necessary.

Mumbai Police said, “Strict patrolling to be held in view of the statewide bandh called by Maha Vikas Aghadi on October 11, over Lakhimpur Kheri violence. Striking reserves to be deployed at strategic points, with 3 companies of SRPF, 500 Home Guards & 700 men from Local Arms units.”

Nearly a week has passed since the Lakhimpur Kheri incident unfolded, where a total of nine people were killed after a car driven by Union Minister Ajay Mishra’s son, Ashish Mishra rammed into protesting farmers. The farmers also alleged that an unidentified man opened fire on them during this incident.