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Banki, April 24, 2026 (Rupashree Swetapadma Mohanty): Local political workers organised a protest in Banki earlier today. They held up black flags to communicate their dissatisfaction toward Banki MLA Devi Ranjan Tripathy. The MLA traveled to the area to open several new community buildings. However, the protesting group blocked his travel route on the state highway. They stopped his car to share their complaints about local growth. 
Banki Highway Protest: Black Flags Greet MLA at Project Openings


Members of the opposing political party stood together on the main road. They waved their flags at the passing cars. The workers shouted loudly and told the MLA to go back home. These citizens claim that government leaders ignore the daily needs of Banki residents. They want fast answers to their community problems. The protesters believe that officials forget about important local improvements.
Soon after the protest started, supporters of the MLA arrived at the highway. The two separate groups stood face to face. They argued with each other about the town's progress. The situation became very loud and uncomfortable. Banki police officers responded quickly to the location. The officers stepped between the two groups and separated them. The police team then guided the MLA safely to his destination. 
Banki Highway Protest: Black Flags Greet MLA at Project Openings


The MLA successfully opened three new public facilities today.
  • Revenue Inspector’s Office: This office helps the citizens of Bhagipur and Kaimundi. Workers here help residents manage their land records easily.
  • Pathapur Sub-Health Centre: This small medical clinic provides basic health care to village families.
  • Ratagarh Panchayat Office: This building gives local leaders a place to manage village duties and public services.
After the opening ceremonies, MLA Devi Ranjan Tripathy spoke to the crowd. He told the people that Banki residents requested these buildings many years ago. He stated that these new centers will make daily life much better for everyone. He called the highway protest a simple political trick. He promised that nothing will stop his plans to improve the town.
The protesting workers shared a completely different message. They promised to organize more protests soon. They demand that leaders fix local problems immediately. Local police officers placed extra security guards near the new buildings. The police department continues to watch the area to keep the town calm and safe.