Normal life was disrupted across Odisha on Thursday as parties belonging to the INDIA bloc observed a 12-hour statewide bandh from 6 am to 6 pm. Public transport services were affected, while shops, commercial establishments, petrol pumps and some educational institutions remained closed in several areas. The shutdown also led to road blockades and demonstrations at multiple locations across the state.

In Bhubaneswar, protesters gathered at major intersections and stopped buses, autorickshaws and other vehicles as part of the shutdown. Demonstrations were reported around Station Square, while roads including NH-16 and the Jaydev Vihar-Nandankanan route were blocked at points. Commuters, office-goers and passengers travelling to railway stations and the airport faced difficulties because of the disruption to transport services.

The impact was not limited to the state capital, with disruptions reported in Cuttack, Bhadrak, Sambalpur, Bargarh, Balasore, Rayagada, Kendrapara, Bolangir and Berhampur. Public buses and autorickshaws largely stayed off the roads in several areas, leaving passengers waiting for alternative transport. The shutdown also created difficulties for people travelling to hospitals, although essential medical and emergency services were kept outside its scope.

Also Read: Second INDIA Bloc Lunch At Kharge's Residence Set Amid Likely Protest Against Poll Chief

The INDIA bloc called the bandh over several demands, including repeal of the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Amendment Act, 2026. The parties have also sought the resignation of Odisha School and Mass Education Minister Nityananda Gond over alleged errors in school textbooks and action against Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar over alleged irregularities in the Special Intensive Revision of electoral rolls.

Authorities had made security arrangements ahead of the shutdown, with police deployed at key locations to maintain law and order and prevent disruptions from escalating. District administrations were instructed to ensure that essential services continued functioning. Police officials also held discussions with protest organisers and other stakeholders, urging demonstrations to remain peaceful and within constitutional limits.

The bandh reflects the opposition parties' broader campaign against the mining law, issues concerning electoral roll revision and the textbook controversy in Odisha. While the shutdown was scheduled to end at 6 pm, its effect during the day was visible through reduced public transport and business activity across several parts of the state. The administration continued monitoring the situation to maintain essential services and public movement.

Also Read: INDIA Bloc Allies Question Rahul And Priyanka Gandhi’s Akashvani Sit-In