Bhubaneswar: Normal life across Odisha was significantly disrupted today as a statewide shutdown, or “bandh,” called by eight opposition political parties brought the state to a standstill. The 12-hour bandh, observed from early morning until 6 p.m., was a powerful protest against the alleged misrule of the “double-engine BJP government” and to demand respect and safety for women, particularly in light of the tragic death of a female student from Fakir Mohan University in Balasore.
The impact of the bandh was felt across the state, with markets, educational institutions, and many government offices, banks, and insurance offices remaining completely closed. Public and private transportation services were largely suspended, leaving roads empty in many areas. Major highways, including the Kolkata-Chennai National Highway, saw long-distance trucks stranded. While train services were not officially suspended, they experienced delays and disruptions due to protest-related blockades at various points.
Balasore district, where the student’s death occurred, experienced the most visible and intense impact, with roads blocked by tyre fires and sit-in demonstrations. Similar disruptions were reported in Jaleswar, Basta, Soro, Baliapal, and Bhograi. In the capital city of Bhubaneswar, Congress workers attempted to storm the railway station, leading to minor scuffles with security forces. Bus services from Bhubaneswar and Cuttack were suspended, leaving commuters stranded, and auto-rickshaws and taxis were largely off the roads, affecting daily wage earners and office-goers.
Essential services, such as ambulances, medical treatment for patients, hospitals, and pharmacies, were exempted from the bandh and continued to operate without reported disruptions.
The core demand of the protesting opposition parties is a judicial inquiry into the death of the Fakir Mohan University student, who tragically died after self-immolation, alleging sexual harassment and inaction by college authorities. They have also vehemently called for the resignation of the Higher Education Minister, the Balasore MP, and the Balasore Sadar MLA. Furthermore, they demand immediate action against the Balasore District Magistrate and Superintendent of Police, alleging a complete collapse of the rule of law and a deteriorating law and order situation that endangers people’s lives and property in the state.
The protests come amidst widespread public anger and political outcry following the student’s death, with opposition leaders accusing the government of a cover-up and systemic failures in ensuring women’s safety and delivering justice. While the accused faculty member and college principal have been arrested, the opposition insists on a judicial probe to uncover the full truth and hold all responsible parties accountable.