India will witness a major nationwide strike, known as Bharat Bandh, on Wednesday, July 9, 2025. Over 25 crore (250 million) workers from different sectors are expected to join the strike. This large-scale protest is likely to disrupt key public services across the country. From banking to transportation, several services may be affected. Here’s everything you need to know about who’s behind the bandh, the reasons for the protest, and which services will stay open or closed.
Who Has Called for the Bharat Bandh?
The Bharat Bandh has been organized by a coalition of 10 central trade unions, with the backing of multiple farmers’ groups and workers’ associations. Together, these groups represent a wide range of employees from both formal and informal sectors.
The major unions leading the strike include:
- All India Trade Union Congress (AITUC)
- Indian National Trade Union Congress (INTUC)
- Centre of Indian Trade Unions (CITU)
- Hind Mazdoor Sabha (HMS)
- Self Employed Women’s Association (SEWA)
- Labour Progressive Federation (LPF)
- United Trade Union Congress (UTUC)
Additionally, farmers’ groups like the Samyukta Kisan Morcha (SKM) and various rural worker organizations are backing the protest. Workers from industries such as railways, mining, steel, and public sector units (PSUs) are expected to join the strike in large numbers.
Why Is the Bharat Bandh Happening?
The unions have organized this strike to voice their strong opposition to several government policies, which they argue are anti-worker, anti-farmer, and disproportionately favor corporate interests.
Key reasons behind the Bharat Bandh include:
- The rollout of four new labour codes, which unions claim weaken worker protections, limit collective bargaining, and make striking more difficult.
- Growing concerns over rising unemployment and inflation, which are affecting the livelihoods of millions of workers.
- Privatization of public sector enterprises, raising fears over job security.
- Reductions in essential public services such as healthcare, education, and welfare programs.
- Shortage of employment opportunities for India’s large youth population.
- The absence of a national labour conference for over a decade, ignoring workers’ issues.
- Alleged moves to weaken migrant worker protections.
The strike is also aimed at urging the government to increase rural employment, improve wages, and halt privatization of key public assets.
What Services Will Be Affected on July 9?
The Bharat Bandh is likely to impact a range of essential services. Some of the key sectors expected to be affected include:
Banking & Financial Services:
Many government and cooperative banks may remain closed or offer only limited services.
Postal Services:
Operations in the postal department could be delayed or temporarily halted.
Public Transport:
State-run buses and transport services might face disruptions in several states, causing inconvenience for daily commuters.
Coal Mining & Industrial Units:
Work at coal mines and factories may come to a standstill as workers join the strike.
Insurance Sector:
Government-run insurance offices such as LIC could be impacted.
Government Offices & PSUs:
Operations in public sector units and government offices may be limited as many employees are likely to participate.
What Will Stay Open?
While many public services will be affected, several sectors are expected to function normally:
Schools & Colleges:
Educational institutions are likely to stay open, though transportation delays could cause some inconvenience.
Private Offices & Businesses:
Most private sector offices, IT companies, and shops are expected to remain unaffected.
Railway Services:
Train services are not officially part of the strike. While some delays may occur, no major disruptions are anticipated.
Will the Bharat Bandh Be Peaceful?
Organizers have assured that the Bharat Bandh will be peaceful. The purpose of the strike is to draw national attention to the pressing issues facing workers, farmers, and rural communities. However, considering the scale of the protest, minor disruptions, traffic delays, and localized disturbances cannot be entirely ruled out.
Has This Happened Before?
Yes, India has seen several similar nationwide strikes in recent years. Notable Bharat Bandhs were held in November 2020, March 2022, and February 2024. These protests were largely peaceful but caused temporary disruptions in daily life.
Should You Be Concerned?
If you have urgent errands involving banks, government offices, or public transport on July 9, it is advisable to reschedule or plan accordingly. While most schools, private businesses, and markets will remain open, public services may face temporary disruptions.
Quick Takeaways:
Public services like banking, postal operations, and public transport may face disruptions.
Schools, colleges, and most private offices are likely to continue operating as usual.
The strike aims to highlight workers’ and farmers’ concerns in a peaceful manner.
Keep yourself updated with local news for region-specific information.
