A 12-hour nationwide shutdown is being observed on Thursday following a Bharat Bandh call by more than 10 central labour organisations protesting against the Centre’s labour policies and the implementation of the four labour codes. The bandh, in effect from 6 am to 6 pm, has disrupted normal life across several parts of Odisha, with political backing from both the Congress and the Biju Janata Dal (BJD).
According to early ground reports, daily life has been widely affected in multiple districts. Shops, markets, schools, colleges, factories, banks and several government offices remained closed in many areas. Public transport services faced significant disruption, while vehicular movement was severely affected on major roads and junctions.
Transport Hit as Trade Unions Enforce Bandh
Major trade unions including CITU, AITUC, INTUC, HMS and UTUC are leading the shutdown, with support from over 50 organisations nationwide, including several farmer groups. Protesters staged road blockades and picketing at key locations to enforce the bandh.
In Bhubaneswar, agitators were seen stopping buses and commercial vehicles at several points, leaving many passengers stranded. Traffic movement slowed considerably near Jaydev Vihar and adjoining stretches due to demonstrations. However, bandh supporters allowed emergency services such as ambulances, milk supply vehicles, LPG cylinder trucks and other essential services to operate.
Protesting union members said the strike was aimed at opposing the new labour codes, alleging that the consolidation of multiple labour laws into four codes weakens worker protections and benefits large corporations. They also raised concerns over unemployment, inflation and lack of consultation with trade unions before policy rollout. Protest leaders warned that agitation could intensify if their demands are not addressed.
Exams Postponed, Rail Movement Affected
The impact of the bandh extended to examinations and rail services in some regions. The GNM second-year Paper-3 examination scheduled for Thursday was postponed and rescheduled for February 16 due to the disruptions.
In Rourkela, protesters reportedly entered the railway station premises and attempted to halt train movement, affecting passengers. Reports of stranded vehicles and blocked routes also emerged from stretches between Khordha and Cuttack.
Advisory Issued for Lok Seva Bhawan Employees
Amid the shutdown, the Odisha government issued a special advisory for employees of Lok Seva Bhawan. Staff members were directed to enter the premises by 9:30 am, with entry gates scheduled to close at 10:15 am. Additional security and monitoring arrangements were made to ensure attendance and smooth functioning of key administrative offices.
Authorities continue to monitor the situation across the state as the bandh progresses, with essential services largely functioning under protection.
