A nationwide strike backed by trade unions and farmer groups is expected to disrupt banking, transport and government services across several states.
India is preparing for widespread disruption on February 12 as central trade unions, backed by farmer organisations, have called a nationwide strike popularly referred to as a Bharat Bandh.
The protest is expected to affect banking services, transport, government offices, and routine public activities across several states.
A joint platform of ten central trade unions has confirmed that the strike will go ahead, with organisers claiming that over 30 crore workers could participate, making it one of the largest coordinated labour actions in recent years.
The strike has been announced primarily in protest against government labour reforms and other economic policies that unions say weaken workers’ protections.
Trade union leaders have argued that the four new labour codes have reduced job security, diluted safeguards, and increased employer flexibility in hiring and firing.
Why the Bharat Bandh Has Been Called
The nationwide protest has been organised by major trade unions, including CITU, AITUC, INTUC, HMS, AICCTU, LPF, and UTUC. These organisations have raised concerns over privatisation, stagnant wages, lack of social security, and what they describe as growing pressure on workers.
Farmer organisations such as the Samyukt Kisan Morcha (SKM) and All India Kisan Sabha (AIKS) have extended their support to the strike, linking it to opposition against the proposed interim India–US trade agreement.
Farmer leaders claim that increased imports of agricultural products could undermine domestic producers and harm the farm sector, while the government has maintained that farmers’ interests remain protected.
Protests are expected across villages and towns, with some farmer groups planning demonstrations and symbolic actions to register their opposition to the trade deal.
Bank Services Likely to Be Hit
Banking operations are among the services expected to face significant disruption. Major banking unions such as AIBEA, AIBOA, and BEFI have indicated participation in the strike, which may impact branch-level services including deposits, withdrawals, and cheque clearances.
While public sector bank branches could see reduced staffing or closures, digital banking platforms, ATMs and private banks are likely to continue operating, though with possible delays in certain transactions.
What Will Likely Be Closed
- Public sector bank branches in many regions
- Government offices in states where participation is high
- Public transport services in selected areas
- Educational institutions in some states depending on local conditions
- Markets and shops in areas witnessing protests
- Possible road blockades (“chakka jam”) in select locations
Large-scale demonstrations are planned in both rural and urban centres, and disruptions could vary widely depending on local participation levels.
What Is Likely to Remain Open
- Private offices, depending on regional impact
- Emergency services such as hospitals and ambulances
- Airports and essential utilities
- Digital banking, ATMs, and online transactions (with limited disruptions possible)
Citizens Advised to Plan Ahead
With workers, farmers, and banking employees joining the protest, the February 12 Bharat Bandh is expected to affect daily routines across multiple sectors. Authorities and financial institutions have advised citizens to complete essential banking, travel, and official work in advance to avoid inconvenience as demonstrations take place nationwide.
Published: 10 Feb 2026, 02:03 pm IST
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