Balangir, Nov 18: The demand for a separate state, ‘Koshal’, has once again intensified with 11 districts of western Odisha observing a 12-hour bandh today.

A bandh has been called in as many as 11 districts under the banner of 'Koshal Rajya Milita Karjyanushtan Committee' to press for the special statehood of ‘Koshal’. 

The effect of the bandh was evident in Bolangir in the morning with the agitators seen picketing from 6 am. Shops, business establishments and educational institutions have been closed due to the bandh.

As several other organisations have supported the bandh, it could affect the normal life in a big way in 11 districts. However, essential services like medical and examinations have been excluded from the bandh. .

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