New Delhi | RBN News
India is expected to witness significant disruptions on February 12, as a joint platform of ten central trade unions has called for a nationwide Bharat Bandh, with claimed participation of over 30 crore workers. The strike has received support from several farmer organisations and sectoral unions, raising the possibility of service interruptions across multiple states.
According to organisers, the bandh is aimed at protesting the Centre’s labour reforms and broader economic policies.
Why Has the Bharat Bandh Been Called?
The strike has been announced by a coalition of major trade unions opposing the implementation of the four new labour codes, which replaced 29 existing labour laws.
Unions argue that the labour codes:
- Dilute worker protections
- Reduce job security safeguards
- Make hiring and termination processes easier for employers
- Weaken collective bargaining strength
In addition, the protesting groups have raised concerns over:
- Privatisation of public sector undertakings
- Wage-related issues
- Social security protections
- Rural employment guarantees under government schemes
Their key demands include withdrawal of the labour codes, review of related rules, and stronger labour welfare safeguards.
What Is Likely to Be Impacted?
While there is no official nationwide shutdown order, the scale of participation may lead to disruptions in several sectors:
🏦 Banking Services
- Public sector banks in certain regions may experience reduced operations.
- Banking unions affiliated with central trade bodies are expected to participate in some states.
- ATM services are likely to remain functional.
🏢 Government Offices
- Attendance in government departments may be affected in states where union participation is high.
🚌 Transport Services
- Road blockades and protest marches may disrupt bus services and local transport.
- State-run transport corporations could face partial interruptions.
- Rail and flight services are expected to operate, though road access to stations or airports may be affected in protest-prone areas.
🏫 Schools and Colleges
- Some educational institutions may remain closed in areas witnessing large demonstrations.
- Private schools are likely to function depending on local law-and-order conditions.
🛍️ Markets and Commercial Areas
- Shops and wholesale markets in major cities may shut temporarily if trader bodies extend support to the bandh.
What Is Expected to Remain Open?
Despite the strike call, essential services are expected to function:
- 🏥 Hospitals and emergency medical facilities
- ✈️ Airports and scheduled flights
- 🏦 ATMs and digital banking platforms
- 🏢 Most private offices and corporate establishments
- 🚑 Emergency services including police and fire departments
Law and Order Preparedness
State governments are expected to deploy additional police personnel in sensitive areas to maintain public order and prevent forced closures. Authorities have indicated that essential services will not be allowed to be disrupted.
What Citizens Should Do
- Check local advisories before travelling
- Plan commutes in advance
- Monitor official updates from state administrations
- Avoid protest-heavy zones
While organisers have claimed participation of over 30 crore workers, the actual impact may vary state-wise, depending on local union strength and public response.
