Kamal Ghorui
NEW DELHI: Over 10 trade and farmers’ unions have called for a Bharat Bandh on February 12 against the Centre’s policies.The bandh is likely to impact public banking, transport and some government sectors. A joint platform of 10 central trade unions has claimed that around 30 crore workers are expected to participate in the general strike across India.Addressing a press conference, All India Trade Union Congress (AITUC) General Secretary Amarjeet Kaur said the scale of participation is likely to surpass previous mobilisations. “Not less than 30 crore workers will join the strike on February 12. During the July 9, 2025 protest, around 25 crore workers took part,” she said.According to the unions, the strike will impact operations in over 600 districts, up from around 550 districts during last year’s agitation.The strike has been called to protest what the unions describe as the Centre’s “anti-worker, anti-farmer and pro-corporate policies.” The platform said farmers’ groups, agricultural labour unions, students, youth bodies and other federations have extended support.
February 12 Bharat Bandh: What’s likely to be open and closed
While essential services are expected to function, disruptions are likely across several sectors.Bharat bandh on February 12 – What’s likely to be affected:
- Public sector banks and insurance offices
- State transport services (buses in select states)
- Government offices and public sector units
- Industrial units and manufacturing hubs
- Coal, steel, and other core sectors (depending on local participation)
- Rural employment works under MGNREGA (in protest areas)
Bharat bandh on February 12 – What’s Likely to remain open:
- Hospitals and emergency services
- Ambulance and essential health services
- Metro services (subject to local administration decisions)
- Private offices and IT companies (depending on region)
- Schools and colleges (state-wise decision)
- Essential supply services such as milk and pharmacies
The Samyukt Kisan Morcha (SKM) too has announced full-fledged backing for the strike, while agricultural workers’ unions are expected to mobilise with a focus on restoring MGNREGA.Kaur claimed that even in BJP-ruled states, the strike will have a major impact. “Odisha and Assam are expected to be completely shut, and other states will see widespread participation,” she said.Strike notices have been served across sectors including government departments, public sector undertakings, industrial clusters and private establishments. Campaigns have been carried out at district and block levels in both rural and urban areas.
