Odisha Bus Operators Warn of December 1 Strike

Bhubaneswar: Private bus operators in Odisha have issued a warning of a statewide strike from December 1 if the state government moves forward with its plan to grant vehicle-checking powers to the police.

The Private Bus Owners’ Association said it will stop bus services across the state if the police are officially authorised to conduct motor vehicle inspections. Association secretary Debendra Sahu said the proposal has raised serious concerns among operators, who fear harassment, repeated stoppages, and unnecessary penalties once these powers are transferred.

Sahu pointed out that similar powers were withdrawn nearly 40 years ago after the police informed the government that they could not manage the responsibility. Since then, vehicle checking has been carried out without police involvement, except for enforcing Section 184 against two-wheeler riders—a move the association supported. He added that police involvement in vehicle matters has been increasing gradually in recent years.

The association had earlier submitted a memorandum urging the state government not to revive these powers. Despite the objections, the government is reportedly moving ahead with the plan.

Meeting Scheduled for November 25

A general body meeting of the association will be held on November 25 to decide the next steps. According to Sahu, if the government formally grants inspection powers to the police, private buses across Odisha will remain off the roads from December 1.

The association has appealed to the government to reconsider the decision, warning that a strike would severely disrupt travel for thousands of daily commuters.