Bhubaneswar, Jul 9: A 24-hour strike called by several central trade unions has brought the city of Bhubaneswar to a standstill, with union members staging protests and organizing a rail roko at the Bhubaneswar railway station.
Reports indicate that the protesters have also gathered at the government bus stand, blocking roads used by both 'Ama Bus' and private buses, severely disrupting public transportation services. Major traffic disruptions have been reported as roads at Master Canteen Chowk have been blocked, leaving many commuters stranded.
The striking unions are demanding a series of changes, including the cancellation of the controversial four labour codes, halting the privatization of public sector enterprises, and the removal of the ceiling on Employee State Insurance (ESI), Employees' Provident Fund (EPF), and gratuity benefits. They are also calling for price control measures on daily necessities, regulation of essential commodities, and an increase in the minimum wage to Rs. 26,000 per month, among other demands.
The strike is aimed at pressuring the government to address these critical issues impacting workers’ rights and their livelihoods, according to the protest organizers. Authorities are working to manage the disruptions, but the situation remains tense in key areas of the city.
