Bharat Bandh on July 9: Key services may be hit as over 25 crore workers announce nationwide strike
PTC Web Desk: India is expected to witness a massive nationwide shutdown (Bharat Bandh) on July 9 as over 25 crore workers from key critical sectors, including banking, insurance, postal services, coal mining, highways, and public transport—gear up for a day-long Bharat Bandh. The strike has been called by 10 central trade unions and their allied organisations to protest against the Centre’s economic and labour policies, which they allege are anti-worker, anti-farmer, and pro-corporate in nature.
Who is participating in the strike?
More than 25 crore workers are expected to take part in the strike. Key sectors to be affected include:
Banking: Public sector and cooperative banks may remain closed or operate with limited services.
Insurance: Offices of LIC and other public insurance firms may see disruptions.
Postal services: Mail delivery and other services may be delayed or halted.
Transport: State-run bus and transport services in several states are expected to come to a standstill.
Coal mining: Mining operations may be suspended in protest.
Construction and factory workers: Labourers across industries have extended support to the strike.
Agricultural workers and farmers: Protests and demonstrations are expected in rural areas as well.
Railways and tourism sectors, however, are expected to operate normally and have been kept outside the ambit of this strike.
Why is the strike being called?
Trade unions accuse the Central Government of pushing policies that benefit corporates at the expense of workers and farmers. The key reasons behind the protest include: Privatisation of public sector enterprises to benefit corporates; dilution of labour rights through the introduction of four new Labour Codes which allegedly restrict workers’ right to strike and bargain collectively. Neglect of agricultural and rural concerns, causing distress to farmers and rural workers.
The unions argue that the government's aggressive push for disinvestment and private ownership of national assets is hurting employment security, labour dignity, and economic equality.
What services will Be affected?
The following services are likely to be impacted across India:
Banking: Limited or no banking operations in public and cooperative banks.
Postal services: Possible shutdown or delays in postal and courier deliveries.
Transportation: State transport services may be suspended, particularly in states where the unions have strong presence.
Mining operations: Coal and other mining activities may be temporarily halted.
Insurance sector: Normal functioning of LIC and other major insurance offices could be impacted.
Construction and industrial units: Labour participation may lead to halting of ongoing projects.
Will schools and colleges be shut?
There is no clear directive regarding the closure of schools and colleges. However, commuting issues due to disrupted transport services may cause inconvenience to students and staff. Individuals are advised to check with local authorities or institutions for updated information.
Who else supports the strike?
The Samyukt Kisan Morcha (SKM) and several agricultural labour unions have expressed full support for the strike
- With inputs from agencies
