India is set to witness a major nationwide strike on Wednesday, July 9, as over 25 crore workers from various sectors gear up for a Bharat Bandh. Organised by a joint platform of 10 central trade unions, the strike is expected to disrupt public services, transport, and industrial activity across the country.
🚩 Why Is the Bharat Bandh Happening?
The strike is being held to protest against several government policies, particularly the new labour codes, privatization of public sector units, and to press for worker-friendly reforms. Key demands include:
- Minimum wage of ₹26,000 per month
- Restoration of the old pension scheme (OPS)
- Withdrawal of fixed-term employment
- Rollback of the Agnipath scheme
- Guarantee of an 8-hour workday
- Monthly minimum pension of ₹9,000 under EPFO
This will be the 22nd general strike since India embraced liberalisation policies in 1991. The strike was originally planned for May 20 but was rescheduled following the Pahalgam terror attack and Operation Sindoor.
✊ Who Is Organising the Strike?
The Bharat Bandh has been jointly called by major trade unions including:
- INTUC (Indian National Trade Union Congress)
- AITUC, CITU, HMS, SEWA, TUCC, and others
- The strike covers both formal and informal sector workers, making it one of the largest coordinated actions in recent years.
🚇 What Will Be Affected?
🚍 Public Transport
Expect significant disruption in bus services, auto-rickshaws, and app-based cabs in states like West Bengal, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, and Maharashtra. While the Indian Railways has not officially joined, protest gatherings near stations may delay train services.
🏫 Schools and Colleges
Most schools and colleges are expected to remain open unless local administrations declare closures. Educational institutions may witness reduced attendance depending on regional protest intensity.
🏢 Offices and Businesses
Private offices and shops are likely to remain open, though footfall may drop. Government offices and PSUs may see a dip in attendance due to worker participation.
✅ What Will Remain Open?
- Hospitals, emergency services, and police will operate normally
- Water, electricity, and essential municipal services will continue
- Retail stores, malls, and restaurants are likely to remain open, subject to local disturbances