Bharat Bandh: Dalit and Adivasi Protest Impacts Odisha's Transport

A Bharat Bandh called by Dalit and Adivasi groups to protest the Supreme Court's recent verdict on SC subclassification impacted transport throughout Odisha. While government operations continued normally, widespread disruption to trains and buses was reported, leading to major blockades and demonstrations across the state.

A Bharat Bandh orchestrated by Dalit and Adivasi groups disrupted transportation across Odisha on Wednesday, targeting the Supreme Court's recent verdict on the sub-classification of Scheduled Castes (SCs).

Despite the disruption, government offices, banks, and educational institutions maintained normal operations, according to police reports.

In response to the anticipated unrest, the Home department issued a directive on Tuesday advising state secretariat staff to arrive by 9:30 AM. Significant security enhancements were implemented at key state facilities.

Protest activities included train detentions at Bhubaneswar and Sambalpur, with passenger buses ceasing operation on multiple routes. Demonstrations and road blockades affected various areas, including national highways. The Visakha Express at Bhubaneswar and trains on the Sambalpur railway lines faced temporary stoppages. Normal train operations resumed after police intervention. Further road blockades were reported in several districts, including Cuttack and Keonjhar.

A total of 21 organizations nationally supported the Bharat Bandh, asserting that the Supreme Court's decision undermines reservation principles.

(With inputs from agencies.)