India is witnessing a nationwide Bharat Bandh on February 12 called by central trade unions and farmer groups to protest labour codes, wage concerns, privatisation, and policy issues. Banking, transport, markets, and educational institutions may face disruptions in several states, while essential services like hospitals, railways, airports, and emergency utilities are expected to function normally.
Trade Unions Call Massive Bharat Bandh; Essential Services to Continue
New Delhi: The nationwide strike, called by a joint group of central trade unions and several farmers' organizations, is being observed today on Thursday. The strike has been called to protest new labor laws, wage issues, privatization, and other policy decisions. According to Amarjeet Kaur, General Secretary of the All India Trade Union Congress (AITUC), approximately 300 million workers are expected to join the movement, which could disrupt services in several sectors.
Banking services are likely to be partially affected, as organizations such as the All India Bank Employees Association (AIBEA), the Bank Employees Federation of India (BEFI), and the All India Bank Officers Association (AIBOA) have supported the strike. Consequently, operations at many public sector banks may be affected or services may be limited. Government offices in some states may also operate at reduced capacity.
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Bus services and local transport are expected to be affected in many cities due to protests and road blockages. KSRTC and private bus services may be affected, particularly in Kerala. Markets and shops may remain closed in protest-affected areas. In states like Karnataka, Kerala, West Bengal, and Odisha, schools and colleges may be closed or classes may be postponed depending on the situation.
Despite the strike, hospitals, ambulances, and other emergency services are expected to operate normally. Railway and air services are also expected to run as scheduled, although there may be slight delays in some locations. Electricity, water, and fire services will also continue. Private offices and online services are expected to function normally.
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Trade unions and farmers' organizations say that new labor laws, wage issues, the India-US trade agreement, and privatization policies could affect the interests of workers and farmers. A nationwide protest and work boycott has been called against this.
People have been advised to check local administration announcements before leaving home, as there is a possibility of traffic disruption or services being affected in some cities.
