Maoist groups launched a 48-hour strike

Maoist groups launched a 48-hour bandh (strike) in six states of eastern India on 22 March 2010. The shutdown affected the states of Orissa, Jharkhand, Chhattisgarh, Bihar, Andhra Pradesh and West Bengal. Reports indicate that three eastern districts of Maharashtra state are also taking part in the bandh. Organizers stated that the massive bandh was called to protest the ongoing Indian military operation against Maoist insurgents. The military offensive, known as Operation Green Hunt, was launched in November 2009 and has seen Indian troops raid numerous Maoist militant camps and training centers. As part of the bandh activities, alleged Maoist fighters damaged some train tracks and a rail bridge in Jharkhand and West Bengal, causing some travel disruptions. Interstate train service is reportedly operating as normal, although transportation authorities have warned that Maoist insurgents may try to attack other transit targets during the 48-hour bandh.