Over 25 crore workers across key sectors such as banking, insurance, postal services, and coal mining are set to join a nationwide general strike on Wednesday, July 9.
The strike, called ‘Bharat Bandh’, is being organized by a coalition of 10 central trade unions to protest against the central government’s policies, which they allege are “anti-worker, anti-farmer, and pro-corporate at the cost of national interest.”
Trade unions are urging mass participation to make the July 9 Bharat Bandh a success, following months of mobilisation across both formal and informal sectors.
“Over 25 crore workers are expected to join the strike. Farmers and rural labourers will also take part nationwide,” said Amarjeet Kaur of the All India Trade Union Congress (AITUC), as quoted by PTI.
The strike is likely to disrupt essential public services and major industries. “Banking, postal services, coal mining, factories, and state transport will be hit,” said Harbhajan Singh Sidhu of the Hind Mazdoor Sabha.
At the heart of the protest is a 17-point charter of demands submitted to Labour Minister Mansukh Mandaviya last year. The unions allege the government has ignored their concerns and failed to convene the Indian Labour Conference for the past 10 years, signalling a disregard for workers’ rights.
Why Bharat Bandh?
In a joint statement, the trade unions strongly criticised the Centre’s labour reforms, particularly the implementation of four new labour codes. They allege these codes undermine workers’ rights by weakening collective bargaining, restricting union activities, increasing working hours, and shielding employers from legal accountability under labour laws.
The unions also accused the government of shifting away from a welfare-oriented approach, instead favouring Indian and foreign corporates through pro-business policies.
Key concerns include the ongoing privatisation of public sector enterprises and services, widespread outsourcing, growing contractorisation, and the casualisation of the workforce—all of which they say erode job security and workers’ dignity.
Support for the Bharat Bandh has also come from the Samyukta Kisan Morcha and several agricultural workers’ unions, who plan to mobilise in rural areas across the country.
This isn’t the first time the unions have taken to the streets. Similar nationwide strikes were organised on November 26, 2020, March 28–29, 2022, and February 16, 2024, reflecting continued discontent with the government’s labour and economic policies.
Will Banks Remain Closed?
While banking unions have not issued an independent confirmation regarding service disruptions, Bharat Bandh organisers have stated that financial services are likely to be affected. Employees from public sector banks and cooperative banking institutions are expected to join the strike, which may impact banking operations across the country.
What About Schools, Colleges & Offices?
Most schools, colleges, and private offices are expected to remain open on July 9. However, certain regions may experience partial disruptions due to transport challenges.
Public transport services—including buses, taxis, and app-based cab providers—could be hit as trade unions and affiliated groups plan protest marches and road blockades in multiple cities, potentially affecting daily commutes.
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