Bharat Bandh on July 9: What’s Open, What’s Closed and 10 Key Things to Know
India is set to witness a major shutdown on Wednesday, July 9, as over 25 crore workers across key sectors prepare for a nationwide strike . Organised by a joint platform of central trade unions , and backed by farmers and rural workers, the strike is a protest against the central government’s labour and economic policies. Here’s what you need to know.
Who Is Leading the Strike?
A coalition of 10 prominent trade unions - including INTUC, AITUC, CITU, HMS, and others - is spearheading the protest. These unions have come together to push back against what they call “anti-worker, anti-farmer, and pro-corporate” policies.
Why Now?
The strike is a response to 17 long-standing demands submitted to the Labour Ministry last year. Central to their grievances is the government’s inaction on workers’ issues and the continued delay of the Indian Labour Conference, which hasn’t been held in over a decade.
Dispute Over New Labour Codes
At the heart of the protest are the four new labour codes passed by Parliament. Unions argue that these codes weaken worker protections, limit the power of trade unions, and make it easier for employers to violate labour laws without consequences.
Claims of Corporate Favouritism
Unions accuse the government of shifting its priorities toward privatisation and corporate interests. They argue that increasing outsourcing and temporary job contracts are hurting job security and welfare in both public and private sectors.
Which Sectors Will Be Hit?
Expect disruptions in:
Will Banks Be Open ?
Though no official closure notice has been issued, public sector and cooperative bank staff are expected to participate. This may impact services like cash handling, cheque clearances, and counter transactions in several regions.
Support from Farmers and Rural Workers
The Samyukta Kisan Morcha and rural labour organisations have extended full support. Demonstrations in villages and small towns are planned to highlight growing concerns over job loss, rising prices, and slashed budgets in education and healthcare.
Are Schools and Offices Affected?
Most schools, colleges, and private offices will likely function as usual. However, minor disruptions due to localised protests or blocked roads can’t be ruled out.
What Will Remain Open?
Essential services - including hospitals, emergency services, and police - are expected to operate normally. Still, public movement could be affected in protest-heavy areas.
Not the First Strike
This isn’t an isolated event. Similar strikes were observed in November 2020, March 2022, and February 2024, with participation cutting across public and private sectors.
As Bharat Bandh unfolds, urban and rural areas may experience delays, restricted movement, and increased political activity. Citizens are advised to stay informed and plan their travel and workday accordingly.
Who Is Leading the Strike?
A coalition of 10 prominent trade unions - including INTUC, AITUC, CITU, HMS, and others - is spearheading the protest. These unions have come together to push back against what they call “anti-worker, anti-farmer, and pro-corporate” policies.
Why Now?
The strike is a response to 17 long-standing demands submitted to the Labour Ministry last year. Central to their grievances is the government’s inaction on workers’ issues and the continued delay of the Indian Labour Conference, which hasn’t been held in over a decade.
Dispute Over New Labour Codes
At the heart of the protest are the four new labour codes passed by Parliament. Unions argue that these codes weaken worker protections, limit the power of trade unions, and make it easier for employers to violate labour laws without consequences.
Claims of Corporate Favouritism
Unions accuse the government of shifting its priorities toward privatisation and corporate interests. They argue that increasing outsourcing and temporary job contracts are hurting job security and welfare in both public and private sectors.
Which Sectors Will Be Hit?
Expect disruptions in:
- Banking and financial services
- Postal services
- Coal and steel industries
- Public transport and state-run units
- Employees from firms like NMDC and other government-run industries are also likely to join the strike.
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Will Banks Be Open ?
Though no official closure notice has been issued, public sector and cooperative bank staff are expected to participate. This may impact services like cash handling, cheque clearances, and counter transactions in several regions.
Support from Farmers and Rural Workers
The Samyukta Kisan Morcha and rural labour organisations have extended full support. Demonstrations in villages and small towns are planned to highlight growing concerns over job loss, rising prices, and slashed budgets in education and healthcare.
Are Schools and Offices Affected?
Most schools, colleges, and private offices will likely function as usual. However, minor disruptions due to localised protests or blocked roads can’t be ruled out.
What Will Remain Open?
Essential services - including hospitals, emergency services, and police - are expected to operate normally. Still, public movement could be affected in protest-heavy areas.
Not the First Strike
This isn’t an isolated event. Similar strikes were observed in November 2020, March 2022, and February 2024, with participation cutting across public and private sectors.
As Bharat Bandh unfolds, urban and rural areas may experience delays, restricted movement, and increased political activity. Citizens are advised to stay informed and plan their travel and workday accordingly.
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