Bhubaneswar, Oct 8: Normal life was affected across Odisha on Thursday as the Congress-led INDIA bloc observed a statewide bandh over a range of demands, with road blockades, demonstrations and rail roko programmes reported from several parts of the state.

Congress workers and members of alliance partners staged protests at various locations, blocking roads and highways and disrupting vehicular movement. The shutdown resulted in traffic congestion and inconvenience for commuters in several major cities and towns.

At some railway stations, protesters also reportedly stopped trains as part of the rail roko programme. Police and local administration were deployed at sensitive locations to maintain law and order and facilitate movement of essential services.

Emergency and essential services, including ambulances, fire brigade vehicles, pharmacies and milk supply vehicles, were kept outside the purview of the bandh. Protesters were also asked not to obstruct medical services, emergency operations and other essential activities.

The Congress has called the bandh over three major demands. It has sought withdrawal of the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Amendment Act, 2026, alleging that the amended law could affect Odisha’s interests in its mineral resources and revenue.

The party has also demanded the resignation of School and Mass Education Minister Nityananda Gond over alleged errors in school textbooks. Another key demand is the resignation and arrest of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar over alleged irregularities in the Special Intensive Revision of electoral rolls.

The bandh led to disruptions in several areas, while authorities monitored the situation across the state.

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