Patna, Feb 01: Shops and business establishments downed shutters here as the dawn-to-dusk bandh called by the NDA and Indian Federal Democratic Party (IFDP) began this morning to protest against the abduction of a brick-kiln owner. Tight security arrangements have been made for the bandh which is reported to be peaceful so far.

All shops and business establishments in Ashiana Nagar and Raja Bazar areas downed their shutters. Schools too were closed. Vehicular traffic on bailey road in the two localities was also thin. The brick-kiln owner, Janaki Singh, was abducted by criminals at Maner, near here, on January 30.

Meanwhile, a delegation of brick-kiln owners called on Chief Minister, Rabri Devi and RJD supremo, Laloo Prasad Yadav last evening. The Chief Minister said she had instructed the authorities to take immediate steps to secure safe release of Janaki Singh.

Bureau Report