Bharat Bandh: Banks, transport, and offices... Trade unions to go on strike across the country on February 12, what will remain closed?

Trade unions and farmers' organizations across the country have called for a nationwide strike on February 12th to protest the central government's policies.

The strike is expected to impact banking, transport services, and some government operations. A joint platform of ten central trade unions has claimed that approximately 300 million workers will participate in the strike.

Tradeunions and farmers' organizations call for a Bharat Bandh

All India Trade Union Congress (AITUC) General Secretary Amarjeet Kaur said in a press conference that the participation level will be higher than before. She said, "At least 300 million workers will participate in the strike on February 12th."

During the July 9, 2025, protest, approximately 250 million workers participated. According to the unions, this strike will affect work in more than 600 districts, compared to last year's movement, which covered approximately 550 districts.

This protest is against the central government's "anti-labor, anti-farmer, and pro-corporate policies." The joint forum stated that farmer groups, agricultural labor unions, students, youth organizations, and other federations have expressed support.

What will be affected and what will continue?

While essential services are expected to continue, operations in many sectors may be affected. The Samyukta Kisan Morcha (SKM) has announced its full support for the strike, while agricultural labor unions will focus on the resumption of MNREGA.

Kaur claimed that the strike will also impact BJP-ruled states. She said, "Odisha and Assam are expected to remain completely shut down, and other states will also see large-scale participation."

Strike notices have been issued across all sectors, including government departments, public sector companies, industrial  and private establishments. Campaigns have been conducted at the district and block levels in both rural and urban areas.