A coalition of central trade unions has called for a nationwide strike on February 12, urging a ‘Bharat Bandh’ to protest the recently announced India–US trade agreement. The unions have accused the BJP-led Union government of compromising national interests during trade negotiations. They claim the strike could disrupt work and services in more than 600 districts across India. The bandh has been announced by 10 major trade unions, including INTUC, AITUC, HMS, CITU, AIUTUC, TUCC, SEWA, AICCTU, LPF and UTUC. Organisers estimate that nearly 30 crore workers may participate, potentially making it one of the largest coordinated labour protests in recent years.
What Is Happening Today?The strike began at 6 am and is expected to continue throughout the day. Protest actions include road blockades, highway demonstrations and ‘rail roko’ campaigns in select states. In areas where unions have strong support, markets and small establishments may remain closed. Public transport services are likely to operate at reduced capacity in several regions. Odisha and Assam are expected to witness the most intense disruptions, while Kerala, West Bengal and Punjab may also see significant impact. There is no nationwide government order declaring a public holiday.
What Remains Open?There is no blanket shutdown across the country despite the bandh call. Most banks are functioning as there is no Reserve Bank of India-declared holiday, though some branches may operate with limited staff. Government offices are largely open, but attendance could be lower in strike-affected states. Essential services such as hospitals, ambulances, pharmacies, electricity supply, water services and fuel stations are operating normally. Flights and long-distance trains have not been officially cancelled, but commuters may face challenges reaching airports and railway stations due to traffic disruptions.
What Is Likely To Be Disrupted?Public transport services are expected to be the most affected. State-run buses, taxis and auto-rickshaws may see reduced operations in multiple states. In Kerala, KSRTC buses and several private operators are participating in the strike. Bus services in Odisha and Assam are heavily curtailed, while disruptions are likely in West Bengal and Punjab. Bengaluru may experience reduced city bus frequency. Metro rail services remain officially operational, but schedules could vary depending on local participation. Road travel may be affected in protest-prone areas due to demonstrations and blockades.
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State-Wise Impact To WatchOdisha is preparing for major disruption, with rail blockades and highway protests planned. Public bus services are likely suspended, and government offices may function with minimal staff. Assam is also witnessing widespread participation, leading to transport disruptions and possible market closures in several districts. Kerala has reported strong support for the strike, affecting transport services and some educational institutions, although essential services continue. West Bengal, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu and Punjab are experiencing varying degrees of impact, depending on union participation and local directives.
Why Are Unions Protesting?Trade unions say the strike is aimed at opposing policy measures they believe weaken labour protections and welfare safeguards. They are demanding the withdrawal of the four labour codes, claiming these reduce job security and collective bargaining rights. They also seek stronger funding and implementation of the MGNREGS rural employment scheme. Other demands include restoring the old pension scheme, reversing changes in civil service rules and withdrawing the National Education Policy 2020. Farmers’ groups have additionally raised concerns that the interim India–US trade framework could negatively affect domestic agriculture and increase competitive pressure on Indian farmers.