Bharat bandh: Nationwide strike disrupts normal life in Odisha; agitation intensifies across Bhubaneswar

A nationwide shutdown is being observed on Thursday following a 12-hour bandh call given by more than 10 labour organisations in protest against the Centre’s labour policies. 

The shutdown, is being enforced from 6 am to 6 pm, affected normal life in several parts of Odisha, with political support extended by both the Congress and the BJD.

Shops and markets, schools and colleges, factories, banks and government offices were being shut in many areas at the time of reporting. Bus services faced direct disruption, and vehicular movement started to be severely affected on key routes.

Protests Disrupt Transport Services

Major trade unions including CITU, AITUC, INTUC, HMS and UTUC joined the bandh. More than 50 organisations across the country, including various farmers’ bodies, extended support.

In Bhubaneswar, protesters were seen picketing and stopping buses on roads, affecting passengers. The Jaydev Vihar stretch witnessed a considerable number of stranded vehicles. However, emergency services such as ambulances, milk vans, cylinder trucks and other essential vehicles are being allowed to pass.

A protester said, “We are observing this protest to raise our voice against the new labour codes implemented by the Modi government. 44 laws were converted into four labour codes to assist corporate monopoly. We demand that these codes be scrapped.”

He added, “After the Modi government assumed office, unemployment and price rise increased. Policies not benefiting people, farmers, students and workers were introduced. If these issues are not resolved soon, the protest will be intensified.”

Another protester said, “We are not affecting emergency services or stopping students from reaching examination centres. These policies were implemented without discussion with trade unions.”

Impact On Examinations And Rail Services

The GNM second-year Paper-3 examination scheduled for Thursday was postponed due to the bandh and will now be held on February 16.

In Rourkela, protesters reportedly entered the railway station to halt services, affecting passengers. Similar scenes of stranded vehicles were reported between Khordha and Cuttack.

Advisory For Lok Seva Bhawan Staff

The Odisha government issued a strict advisory for Lok Seva Bhawan staff, directing officials to enter the premises by 9:30 am, with gates scheduled to close at 10:15 am sharp. Tight security and compliance measures were put in place to ensure the smooth functioning of offices.