Strike's Wide Reach
A significant nationwide shutdown, known as the Bharat Bandh, took place on February 12, orchestrated by a coalition of more than ten prominent trade and farmers'
unions. Their collective action was a protest against what they described as the central government's "anti-worker, anti-farmer and pro-corporate policies." This unified front claimed the participation of an estimated 30 crore workers across India, a figure reportedly surpassing previous mobilisations. The strike's extensive reach was highlighted by the fact that it was expected to affect operations in over 600 districts, an increase from the approximately 550 districts impacted during the previous year's protest. The unions also announced that farmers’ groups, agricultural labour unions, student bodies, youth organizations, and other federations had declared their support, amplifying the strike's potential impact.
Services Facing Disruption
The February 12 Bharat Bandh led to considerable disruptions across several key sectors, although essential services were largely anticipated to continue functioning. Public sector banks and insurance offices were among the prominent institutions expected to be affected. Operations in government offices and public sector undertakings were also slated for disruption. Furthermore, the strike was anticipated to impact industrial units, manufacturing hubs, and core sectors such as coal and steel, with the extent varying based on local participation levels. In rural areas, employment works under the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA) were also expected to be halted in protest zones. State transport services, including bus operations in select states, were also on the list of services likely to experience significant interruptions.
Sectors Remaining Open
Despite the nationwide strike, several critical services were expected to remain operational to mitigate public inconvenience. Hospitals and all emergency medical services were designated to continue without interruption. This included the operation of ambulances and other essential healthcare provisions. Metro services across various cities were also anticipated to run, subject to decisions made by local administrative bodies. Many private offices and IT companies were expected to function, though their operational status could vary depending on the specific region and local participation in the bandh. Schools and colleges were to make state-wise decisions regarding their functioning, and essential supply services, such as the distribution of milk and the operation of pharmacies, were to remain open to ensure the public's basic needs were met.
Regional Impact and Support
The Bharat Bandh on February 12 was projected to have a substantial impact across various regions of India, with certain states anticipated to experience a near-complete shutdown. For instance, Odisha and Assam were expected to observe a complete bandh. Other states were predicted to witness widespread participation, indicating a broad-based discontent. The Samyukt Kisan Morcha (SKM), a prominent farmers' organization, had declared its full support for the strike. Agricultural workers' unions were particularly focused on mobilising for the restoration of MGNREGA benefits. Strike notices were reportedly served across a multitude of sectors, encompassing government departments, public sector undertakings, industrial clusters, and private establishments. Extensive campaigning efforts were carried out at both district and block levels, spanning both rural and urban areas, to ensure broad awareness and participation.
