Bharat Bandh on February 12: What services could get hit amid support from workers nationwide

Why are trade unions calling the strike?

The nationwide general strike has been called to demand the repeal of the four labour codes and the withdrawal of several policies affecting workers and farmers.

Key demands include:

• Withdrawal of the Labour Codes
• Restoration of the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme (MGNREGS)
• Rollback of policies perceived to weaken Civil Services
• Restoration of the old pension scheme
• Withdrawal of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020

Meanwhile, farmers’ organisations such as the Samyukta Kisan Morcha (SKM) have raised concerns about the India-US interim trade framework, alleging it could adversely affect Indian farmers.

According to a PTI report, the strike is expected to affect around 600 districts. Amarjeet Kaur said Odisha and Assam are likely to witness a complete shutdown, while several other states may experience significant disruptions.

Banking operations, public transport services and government offices in many regions may be affected. However, essential services — including hospitals, ambulance services, airports, medical facilities, private offices and ATMs — are exempt.

Will schools and colleges be affected?

There is no official nationwide holiday announcement for educational institutions.

However, schools and colleges in states such as Kerala, Odisha and West Bengal may remain closed due to strong local support for the strike, according to multiple reports.

Impact on markets and banking services

Wholesale markets and retail establishments in states with significant union presence are likely to shut down.

In the banking sector, employee and officer organisations — including the All India Bank Employees’ Association (AIBEA), the All India Bank Officers’ Association (AIBOA), and the Bank Employees Federation of India (BEFI) — have joined the protest call. Consequently, public banking services may be impacted.