Bharat Bandh on Feb 12: What to Expect

A nationwide strike, or Bharat Bandh, has been called for Thursday, February 12, by a joint forum of 10 central trade unions. Several farmers’ organisations have also extended support to the protest.

The strike has been announced in opposition to the four new labour codes and the recently announced India-US interim trade agreement.

Why are trade unions protesting?

Trade unions argue that the new labour codes, which replaced 29 earlier labour laws, weaken worker protections and provide employers with greater flexibility in hiring and firing.

They have also raised concerns about privatisation, wage growth and social security benefits. Among the unions supporting the strike are the Centre of Indian Trade Unions (CITU), All India Trade Union Congress (AITUC), Indian National Trade Union Congress (INTUC), Hind Mazdoor Sabha (HMS), All India Central Council of Trade Unions (AICCTU), Labour Progressive Federation (LPF) and United Trade Union Congress (UTUC).

In addition to labour reforms, the unions are demanding withdrawal of the Draft Seed Bill, the Electricity Amendment Bill and the Sustainable Harnessing and Advancement of Nuclear Energy for Transforming India (SHANTI) Act. They have also called for the restoration of MGNREGA and repeal of the Viksit Bharat – Guarantee for Rozgar and Ajeevika Mission (Gramin) Act, 2025.

Farmers’ groups join protest

Farmers’ bodies, including the Samyukt Kisan Morcha (SKM) and the All-India Kisan Sabha (AIKS), have backed the bandh. They have expressed concerns about the potential impact of the India-US trade agreement on domestic agriculture.

SKM leaders have publicly criticised the agreement and announced a campaign ahead of the February 12 strike. The group has said it believes the deal could negatively affect farmers’ interests.

What services may be affected?

Banking services may see partial disruption. Several bank employee and officer unions, including AIBEA, AIBOA and BEFI, have indicated participation in the strike.

The State Bank of India has informed customers that services may face temporary disruptions, although February 12 has not been declared an official bank holiday. Branches are expected to remain open, but certain operations could be delayed.

Public transport services may be affected in some states due to protest marches and possible road blockades. Buses, taxis and local transport systems could face interruptions depending on local participation levels.

Local markets and shops in certain areas may remain closed. Government offices in some regions could also experience lower attendance if employees join the strike.

What is likely to remain open?

Emergency services such as hospitals and ambulance services are expected to function normally. Airports and essential utility services are also likely to operate as usual.

However, travellers are advised to allow extra time for commuting due to possible traffic congestion and demonstrations in some areas.

Authorities have not announced a nationwide shutdown, but disruptions may vary by state and city based on local participation.

Citizens are advised to check local updates and plan accordingly.