Lagatar24 Desk
New Delhi: A nationwide Bharat Bandh called by major trade unions and farmers’ organisations is underway on February 12, with unions claiming it will affect operations in more than 600 districts and disrupt banking, transport, and educational services in several regions.
Large-Scale Strike Across the Country
More than 10 trade unions and protest groups have joined the bandh, calling it one of the biggest strikes in recent years. AITUC General Secretary Amarjeet Kaur said over 30 crore workers are expected to participate, compared to around 25 crore workers in the July 9, 2025 protest.
What Services May Be Closed or Disrupted
Public sector banks and insurance offices may remain closed or run with limited staff, leading to delays in cash withdrawals and cheque clearances. Public transport services such as buses and auto-rickshaws may also face interruptions, especially in areas with strong participation. Some government offices and administrative services could be partially shut. Schools and colleges in protest-hit areas may remain closed, while markets, small businesses, and factory operations may slow down.
What Services Will Remain Open
Authorities said essential services will continue, including hospitals, pharmacies, ambulances, fire and rescue services, electricity, and water supply. ATMs and digital banking platforms are expected to function even if bank branches are shut. Private offices not participating in the bandh are likely to operate normally, and metro and railway services are expected to run as usual.
Why Unions Are Protesting
The bandh has been called in protest against the Centre’s economic and labour policies. Unions oppose the consolidation of 29 labour laws into four labour codes. Their key demands include scrapping the labour codes, withdrawing the Draft Seed Bill, restoring MGNREGA, and rolling back multiple new laws and bills, including the Viksit Bharat – Guarantee for Rozgar and Ajeevika Mission (Gramin) Act, 2025, the Electricity Amendment Bill, and the SHANTI Act related to nuclear energy.
