A 12-hour Odisha bandh has been called for Thursday, October 8, with the Congress-led INDIA bloc appealing to supporters to observe the shutdown peacefully and democratically. The bandh will be observed from 6 am to 6 pm, with several political parties extending support to the call.
The INDIA bloc has issued detailed guidelines outlining what participants should and should not do during the bandh. While shops, markets, commercial establishments, offices, educational institutions and commercial vehicles are expected to be affected, supporters have been asked to rely only on peaceful appeals and democratic picketing.
The guidelines specifically call for respectful and restrained behaviour towards the public. Participants have been asked to assist people travelling for emergencies, particularly patients, senior citizens, children and women.
Essential Services to Remain Operational
Emergency and essential services have been kept outside the purview of the bandh. Government and private hospitals, nursing homes, clinics, emergency medical centres, diagnostic facilities, blood banks, doctors, nurses and healthcare workers will continue to function.
All student examinations, ambulances including 108 and 102 services, fire services, rescue teams, pharmacies, Jan Aushadhi Kendras, milk supply, disaster management services, emergency police services, electricity and water supply are also expected to remain operational.
The INDIA bloc has also appealed to supporters not to obstruct journalists and media personnel covering the bandh.
Odisha Government Steps Up Security
The state Home Department has directed all district collectors to remain alert and take preventive measures to maintain law and order. The bandh may witness road blockades, rail blockades, rallies and protests, besides possible disruptions near mines and government offices.
The Home Department has asked officials to ensure that central and state government offices function normally and that essential services remain unaffected.
High Court Bar Seeks Suspension of Hearings
The Odisha High Court Bar Association has written to the Registrar Judicial requesting that court proceedings be suspended on Thursday due to the bandh.
The association said disruptions to road and rail connectivity could affect the movement and safety of lawyers, making it difficult for many advocates to appear before the court either physically or virtually. It has also requested that no adverse or ex parte orders be passed in cases where lawyers are unable to attend.
Police Warn Against Violence
An extensive security review meeting was held at the Odisha Police headquarters under the chairmanship of Interim DGP Binaytosh Mishra. Police deployment and patrolling will be strengthened at national highways, railway stations and other sensitive locations, while naka checking will also be intensified.
The police have warned that violence, vandalism, forced closure of shops or obstruction of public movement will invite immediate legal action.
District SPs and DCPs have been directed to maintain strict vigil across the state and ensure that the October 8 bandh remains peaceful and does not disrupt public safety or essential services.