Bharat Bandh on February 12 likely to disrupt normal life in Odisha

Normal life across Odisha is likely to be affected on February 12 as Central Trade Unions have called for a nationwide Bharat Bandh demanding the withdrawal of the four newly introduced labour codes. The strike has also received backing from several farmer organisations.

Trade union leaders have indicated that key sectors such as banking, public transport, government offices and public sector undertakings may witness disruptions during the bandh. Business establishments in major urban centres, including Bhubaneswar, Cuttack and district headquarters towns, are also expected to be impacted.

Commuters may face inconvenience as protestors are likely to stage demonstrations and road blockades at various locations, including major highways.

Support for Bandh in Odisha

In Odisha, the strike has been supported by Left parties, including the CPI(M), CPI, CPI(ML) Liberation and the Forward Bloc. Trade unions have expressed opposition to the four labour codes introduced last November, which replaced 29 existing labour laws.

According to union representatives, the new codes weaken workers’ rights and reduce job security protections. They allege that the reforms dilute safeguards that had been established over decades of labour movements.

Likely Impact on Services

Educational institutions, banks, post offices, markets, industrial units and factories may remain closed in several areas during the bandh. Fuel supply could also be disrupted in certain locations.

However, essential and emergency services, including hospitals, ambulance services, pharmacies, water supply, electricity and fire services,  are expected to function normally.

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Airports and flight operations are likely to remain unaffected. Train services are expected to run as scheduled, though delays cannot be ruled out if rail blockades occur. Private offices may operate with limited attendance, while online and digital services could face minor localised disruptions.