Normal life across Odisha is expected to face disruptions on February 12 as central trade unions have called for a nationwide Bharat Bandh demanding the rollback of the four labour codes introduced by the Centre. The strike has also drawn support from several farmer organisations and Left political parties, raising the possibility of widespread impact across multiple sectors in the state.
Why Has the Bharat Bandh Been Called?
The nationwide strike has been announced in protest against the four labour codes that came into effect last November, replacing 29 existing central labour laws. These include the Code on Wages, the Industrial Relations Code, the Social Security Code, and the Occupational Safety, Health and Working Conditions Code.
Trade union leaders argue that the new labour framework weakens long-standing worker protections and reduces job security. According to them, the reforms favour ease of doing business at the cost of employees’ rights and could adversely affect industrial relations across the country.
Support for the Strike in Odisha
In Odisha, the bandh has received backing from Left parties such as the CPI(M), CPI, CPI(ML) Liberation and the Forward Bloc. Union representatives in the state have stated that protests, demonstrations and road blockades will be organised in several districts to press for the withdrawal of the labour codes.
Farmer groups supporting the strike have also indicated solidarity actions, which could further intensify the impact in rural and semi-urban areas.
Likely Impact on Key Services
Major cities including Bhubaneswar, Cuttack and several district headquarters are likely to witness closures of markets and business establishments. Public transport services may be partially affected, and commuters could face inconvenience due to road blockades on highways and key junctions.
Sectors that may experience disruption include:
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Banking services
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Government offices
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Public sector undertakings
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Educational institutions
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Industrial units and factories
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Post offices and local markets
Fuel supply in certain areas could also be impacted if transport operations are disrupted.
Private offices may function with limited staff attendance, while some online and digital services could experience minor, localised interruptions depending on ground conditions.
What Will Remain Open?
Despite the bandh call, essential and emergency services are expected to operate normally. These include:
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Hospitals and healthcare facilities
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Ambulance services
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Pharmacies
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Water supply and electricity services
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Fire and emergency response units
Airports and flight operations are likely to remain unaffected. Railway services are scheduled to run as usual; however, delays cannot be ruled out if protestors attempt rail blockades at certain locations.
Advisory for Citizens
Authorities are expected to monitor the situation closely to maintain law and order. Citizens are advised to plan travel in advance, check the status of banking and transport services, and avoid unnecessary movement in areas where protests are anticipated.
The February 12 Bharat Bandh is set to be a significant show of strength by trade unions and allied organisations, with Odisha likely to witness notable disruptions in daily activities as part of the nationwide protest.
