Normal life was partially disrupted across Odisha on Thursday, July 17, 2025, as several opposition parties including the Congress, CPI(M), and AAP called a 12-hour statewide bandh. The protest was launched to condemn the alleged murder of a student in Balasore, which has sparked widespread outrage across the state.

The bandh, which began at 6 AM and continued till 6 PM, saw road blockades, protest marches, and sit-ins in several towns and cities. Major arterial roads and highways were obstructed by agitating political workers, leading to traffic snarls in urban areas.

What Triggered the Bandh: The Balasore Student Death

The bandh was sparked by the suspicious death of a 19-year-old student from Balasore last week. The youth was reportedly found dead under mysterious circumstances near his hostel, with preliminary reports suggesting signs of assault. However, no conclusive autopsy report has been shared publicly by the authorities so far.

The family of the deceased has alleged foul play and cover-up, accusing local authorities of deliberate inaction. This triggered a political outcry, with parties demanding:

• A CBI or SIT investigation into the incident.

• Suspension of local police officers accused of negligence.

• A judicial inquiry monitored by a sitting High Court judge.

Effect of the Bandh on Normal Life

Though essential services like ambulances, hospitals, and milk vans were largely allowed to function, several public and private institutions remained shut in protest-affected zones. Here’s how the bandh unfolded:

• Schools and colleges remained closed in Balasore, Bhadrak, Cuttack, and Bhubaneswar.

• Shops and commercial establishments remained closed in many parts of the state, especially in north Odisha.

• Several train services and buses were delayed or cancelled, especially on routes passing through Balasore and Bhubaneswar.

• Local business owners reported a significant drop in daily income, with markets remaining deserted for most of the day.

Odisha Police and Administration on High Alert

The Home Department of Odisha issued strict instructions to all district collectors and SPs to maintain law and order throughout the day.

"All SPs must remain vigilant to prevent any escalation of violence. Protestors must not be allowed to damage public property or create panic," the directive stated.

Police were seen deployed in sensitive areas, particularly around educational institutions and public offices. Over 100 political workers were detained across the state as a precautionary measure. Reports of minor clashes between protestors and police personnel were reported in Balasore and Jajpur, though no major violence occurred.

Political Responses and Public Reactions

• Congress leaders staged symbolic dharnas across district headquarters, demanding the resignation of the Home Minister.

• CPI(M) called the student’s death a “symptom of state failure in protecting youth.”

• AAP’s Odisha unit announced it will file a public interest litigation (PIL) in the Odisha High Court demanding court-monitored probe.

Common citizens expressed anger and anxiety, especially as transport and daily services were impacted. Some students preparing for entrance exams also reported difficulty in accessing coaching centres.

Government Response to the Allegations

While the ruling BJD government has condemned the death and assured action, it criticised the bandh as “political opportunism.”

In an official statement, Odisha CM’s office said:

“The state government is deeply saddened by the unfortunate incident. A fair and unbiased investigation is underway. Public disruption is not a solution.”

Sources suggest the government is considering forming a special task force to expedite the investigation, but no official confirmation has come yet.

Conclusion: Bandh Reflects Rising Public Anger Over Law and Order

The Odisha bandh of July 17, 2025, though only partially successful in halting life, served as a powerful expression of public frustration over law and order failures. The Balasore student’s death, now a state-level issue, has become a rallying point for opposition unity and civil society activism.

As the pressure mounts, the state government faces a critical test: either deliver justice transparently or face continued political and public backlash.

The Upcoming IPOs in this week and coming weeks are Monarch Surveyors & Engineering Consultants, TSC India, Swastika Castal, Savy Infra, NSDL.

The Current active IPO are Monika Alcobev.

Start your Stock Market Journey and Apply in IPO by Opening Free Demat Account in Choice Broking FinX.

Join our Trading with CA Abhay Telegram Channel for regular Stock Market Trading and Investment Calls by CA Abhay Varn - SEBI Registered Research Analyst.