Bhubaneswar, October 7: The Odisha Congress has called a 12-hour state-wide bandh on Thursday over demands including withdrawal of the MMDR Amendment Act, resignation of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar, and action against the state School and Mass Education Minister over alleged errors in school textbooks.

Several non-BJP parties, including CPI, CPI(M), CPI(ML), NCP, Forward Bloc, Samajwadi Party, RJD and JMM, are expected to support the bandh.

The INDIA bloc has alleged that the amended MMDR Act undermines states’ rights over natural resources and could affect tribal communities. It has also raised objections to the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls and alleged factual errors in Classes 1 to 8 textbooks.

Transport services, including buses, trucks, autos and taxis, as well as shops, markets and commercial establishments, are likely to be affected. Protesters may also stage road blockades and rail roko demonstrations.

Some schools and private institutions may suspend or delay classes, although no state government order has been issued for closure.

Essential and emergency services, including hospitals, ambulances, pharmacies, diagnostic centres and milk and essential food supplies, will remain outside the bandh. Students appearing for scheduled examinations are also expected to receive special consideration.

The Congress has appealed for public support and urged protesters to ensure that the bandh is conducted peacefully.