Why the Strike?
A significant nationwide strike, known as Bharat Bandh, commenced today, February 12th, initiated by a coalition of ten central trade unions. This widespread
action is a direct protest against recent labour reforms and economic policies that, according to the unions, undermine the protections previously afforded to workers. The unions are particularly vocal in their opposition to the four new labour codes, which they contend replace 29 existing laws and significantly weaken worker protections, diminish job security, and grant employers greater latitude in hiring and dismissal. Key demands from the unions include the complete revocation of these new labour codes and associated rules, the withdrawal of the Draft Seed Bill, the Electricity Amendment Bill, and the Sustainable Harnessing and Advancement of Nuclear Energy for Transforming India (SHANTI) Act. Additionally, they are calling for the reinstatement of the MGNREGA scheme and the discontinuation of the Viksit Bharat – Guarantee for Rozgar and Ajeevika Mission (Gramin) Act, 2025. Notably, farmer organisations, including the Samyukt Kisan Morcha, have also thrown their support behind this Bharat Bandh, with their own protests planned against the India–US trade agreement.
Services Facing Disruption
The Bharat Bandh on February 12th is expected to cause varied levels of disruption across several key sectors. Banking and insurance services may experience significant impacts, with some bank branches potentially operating with reduced staff or remaining completely closed, contingent on employee participation. Public transportation, including bus services, could operate with diminished frequency or face complete suspension in certain areas. Industrial and business operations might see a slowdown, and educational institutions like schools and colleges could face disruptions if a substantial number of staff members join the strike. Moreover, many markets and individual shops may opt to close their doors for the day. Protesters may also engage in street demonstrations, potentially leading to road closures. States with historically strong union presences, such as Kerala, Odisha, and Karnataka, are anticipated to witness a more pronounced effect from the strike.
Exempted Services
While the Bharat Bandh will affect numerous services, critical essential services have been explicitly exempted to ensure public welfare. This includes operations within hospitals and all medical facilities, as well as the availability of medical stores and pharmacies. Ambulance services, crucial for emergency medical transport, will continue to function without interruption. Fire and rescue operations will also remain unaffected. Vital supplies such as milk distribution will proceed as usual, and newspaper distribution services are guaranteed to operate, ensuring the public remains informed. In Kerala, specific exemptions have been made for vehicles transporting pilgrims to Sabarimala and for attendees of the Maramon Convention. Furthermore, airport operations nationwide are set to continue as normal. While physical banking transactions may be impacted, digital banking services are expected to remain fully accessible.
