Nationwide ‘Bharat Bandh’ Halts Normal Life — Capital City Grinds to a Standstill – News12 Odisha

Bhubaneswar : The Bharat Bandh, a nationwide general strike called by ten central trade unions along with support from farmers’ groups, has brought much of the country — including the Capital City Bhubaneswar — to a virtual standstill. More than 25 crore workers across sectors are participating in the strike, voicing strong opposition to the government’s pro-corporate reforms, proposed labour code changes, privatization drives, and growing rural economic distress.

In Bhubaneswar, key intersections such as Master Canteen Square, Vani Vihar, Jaydev Vihar, and Raj Mahal Square witnessed large gatherings of protestors. Slogans echoed as roads were blocked, leading to heavy traffic congestion and stranding hundreds of commuters.

The strike severely disrupted daily life across Odisha. While essential services such as hospitals and emergency response units remained operational, several faced staff shortages and delays due to the widespread worker participation in the bandh.

Protestors claim the strike is a response to what they describe as the government’s continued neglect of workers’ rights and rural welfare, demanding reversal of anti-labour reforms and greater job creation initiatives, especially for the youth.