Under the banners of 10 major trade unions, both the government and private sector workers joined the strike demanding a minimum monthly wage of Rs 18,000, end to privatisation of public sector undertakings, and immediate action to control the price rise, among other things.
The public transport system came to a standstill as the protesters resorted to blockade of roads and railway tracks in several areas.
Many Express, passenger and freight trains were stranded at various stations due to the strike.
Shops, other business establishments and some educational institutions also remained closed due to the shutdown, the state police authorities said.
The state administration also was crippled as employees did not turn up at offices in support of the strike. The protesters resorted to picketing at government offices.
In twin cities of Bhubaneswar and Cuttack, the members of the trade unions blocked roads and burnt tyres to hinder traffic.
"We are protesting the central government's indifference towards our demands and effecting anti-worker changes in labour laws," said Bishnu Mohanty, Centre of Indian Trade Unions (CITU) National Vice President.
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