Nationwide Bharat Bandh Disrupts Services Across Several States

A nationwide Bharat Bandh is being observed on Thursday, February 12, as trade unions and farmers’ organisations mount a coordinated protest against a range of government policies. Organisers claim that more than 30 crore workers across India are expected to participate in the general strike.

The bandh has been called jointly by fourteen national trade unions and is being supported by agricultural labour groups, rural organisations and unions representing informal sector workers. Employees from central and state government departments, public sector undertakings, and teachers’ associations have also extended their backing to the protest.

All India Trade Union Congress (AITUC) General Secretary Amarjeet Kaur said the scale of participation is likely to exceed the July 2025 nationwide strike, which reportedly saw around 25 crore workers joining demonstrations. Preparations for this mobilisation were carried out across districts and blocks over the past several weeks, union leaders said.

Farmer organisations have also thrown their weight behind the bandh. The Samyukta Kisan Morcha (SKM) criticised the recent India–US trade arrangement, alleging that it could adversely affect domestic agriculture and rural livelihoods. SKM convenor Hannan Mollah accused the Union government of compromising farmers’ interests during negotiations and demanded accountability from the Centre. The group conducted a nationwide outreach campaign from February 4 to 11 to mobilise support ahead of the strike.

Trade unions say the agitation is aimed at opposing what they describe as anti-worker and anti-farmer policies. Among their key demands are the withdrawal of the four labour codes, strengthening and effective implementation of MGNREGS, restoration of the old pension scheme, a review of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, and reconsideration of policy changes affecting civil services. Farmers’ groups have additionally raised concerns over the implications of the India–US interim trade framework.

According to organisers, the bandh could affect nearly 600 districts nationwide. Odisha and Assam are expected to witness widespread disruption, while partial impact is likely in several other states.

Public sector banking operations may be affected due to support from employee unions. Road transport disruptions and localised blockades have been reported in some regions, and state-run buses and auto services may remain off the roads in certain areas. Markets in union-strong regions are likely to remain closed. While trains and flights are scheduled to run, commuters may face difficulties reaching stations and airports. Educational institutions in some states may suspend classes depending on local conditions, though no nationwide closure has been announced.

Essential services — including hospitals, ambulance networks, airports, medical facilities, private offices and ATMs — are expected to function as usual.

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