Odisha Secretariat Staff to Launch Indefinite Cease-Work Strike From Tomorrow

Bhubaneswar: The Odisha Secretariat Service Association (OSSA) has announced an indefinite cease-work agitation starting tomorrow (Tuesday), to pressure the state government into addressing their long-standing demands. This decision follows an urgent meeting held by the association members on Monday, expressing their frustration with the government’s inaction.

According to a press release issued by the association on Monday, despite numerous discussions with government officials, there has been no progress on meeting their demands. Prajyotna Baral, the association’s general secretary, highlighted the dissatisfaction among Secretariat staff due to the administration’s indifference.

Seeking immediate intervention from the Chief Minister and 5T Secretary, the association outlined their plans for the strike. Members will not only cease work indefinitely but also stage a sit-in protest on the grounds of the Panchayati Raj department starting tomorrow.

This escalation follows a similar protest in June 2023, where OSSA members had gheraoed the Secretariat building demanding a raise in basic salaries for Secretariat employees.