The Government of Odisha has issued high-level security directives and operational advisories across all state departments in preparation for a 12-hour statewide bandh called by several opposition political parties.
The shutdown, scheduled for October 8, 2026, from 6 AM to 6 PM, has been called by a coalition of political parties, including the Congress, CPI, CPI(M), CPI(ML) Liberation, Forward Bloc, NCP, and Samajwadi Party.
The protesting organizations have planned wide-scale demonstrations across the state over various demands, including road blockades, rallies, picketing, “Rail Roko” actions, and enforced closures of mines, government offices, educational institutions, markets, and commercial establishments.
Tightened Security at State Secretariat
In response to potential public disruption and to ensure the uninterrupted functioning of administration, the Home (Special Section) Department issued an official communication to all Additional Chief Secretaries, Principal Secretaries, Commissioner-cum-Secretaries, and Special Secretaries. Signed by Sri Soumendra Patra, OSD-cum-Additional Secretary to Government, the notice details strict movement and access guidelines for Key government establishments, including Lok Seva Bhawan, Kharavela Bhawan, Rajiv Bhawan, Krushi Bhawan, and the Heads of Department Building.
To facilitate smooth and safe entry, officers and employees working in these key administrative centers have been advised to reach their offices latest by 9:30 AM.
The state government has outlined specific security protocols for the day:
- Gate Closures: The front gates of Lok Seva Bhawan will be closed at 10:15 AM on October 8, with all movement subsequently regulated through the rear gate. The connecting passage between the Red Building and the Main Lok Seva Bhawan building will remain open.
- Strict Verification: Security checks for official Identity Cards and Passes will be intensified. Vehicles displaying a Car Pass will not be permitted entry without valid authorization.
- Restricted Visitor Access: General visitor entry will be restricted. Only individuals with prior pressing appointments recommended by the concerned department and approved by the Special Secretary, Home Department, will be granted entry. Approved visitors will be required to leave immediately after their meetings end.
- Employee Conduct: Departmental staff have been instructed to remain at their assigned desks and attend to their duties without unnecessary movement across the complex.
District Administration on High Alert
Beyond the central secretariat complex in Bhubaneswar, the Home Department has directed all District Magistrates and Collectors across Odisha to take comprehensive preventive and precautionary security measures.
District heads have been instructed to maintain close watch over their respective jurisdictions to uphold law and order, prevent untoward incidents, and ensure the smooth functioning of Central and State Government offices.
District administrations are also tasked with ensuring that essential services across the state remain unaffected during the 12-hour strike.
