Odisha Bus Strike Called Off After Govt Clarifies No Extra Powers for Police

Bhubaneswar: The All Odisha Bus Owners’ Association (AOBOA) has withdrawn its state-wide strike call that was scheduled to begin on December 1, following a clear assurance from the state government that no additional motor vehicle checking powers have been granted to the police.

The association had earlier threatened to halt bus operations across Odisha, expressing fear that expanded police authority could lead to harassment of operators, service disruptions and excessive penalty-based enforcement.

Speaking to reporters on Thursday, AOBOA general secretary Debendra Kumar Sahu said the government’s clarification has eased the concerns of private bus operators. He stated that discussions with the Transport Department confirmed that no proposal to enhance police powers has been approved. Sahu added that the association had opposed such powers, noting they were withdrawn nearly four decades ago because the police were unable to manage them effectively.

Sahu said the strike was being called off in view of the government’s assurance, but warned that if the administration revisits the proposal, the association will consider further action.

The decision brings major relief to thousands of daily commuters who depend on private buses for travel across the state.