A nationwide general strike, or Bharat Bandh, is set to take place on Wednesday, July 9, with over 25 crore (250 million) workers from both formal and informal sectors expected to participate. The strike is likely to cause major disruptions in public services across India, though schools and most private offices are expected to remain open.
The strike has been called by a joint forum of 10 central trade unions, supported by various workers’ and farmers’ organisations. Their aim is to protest against what they describe as the central government’s “anti-worker, anti-farmer, and pro-corporate” policies. The unions allege that recent economic and labour reforms have eroded worker rights, weakened collective bargaining, and worsened job conditions.
Key reasons for the protest include:
Implementation of four new labour codes that reduce worker protections and restrict the right to strike.
Rising unemployment and inflation.
Cuts in public services such as healthcare and education.
Government hiring of retirees over new job seekers.
Lack of a national labour conference for a decade.
Attempts to disenfranchise migrant workers.
Crackdown on protests using security laws.
The strike includes members from major trade unions such as:
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)
Support is also coming from:
Farmer groups like Samyukta Kisan Morcha
Rural worker unions
Employees from Railways, NMDC Ltd, and steel industries
Protesters are calling for:
Withdrawal of the four labour codes
Restoration of union rights and the right to strike
Creation of more jobs, especially for youth
Filling of government vacancies with fresh recruitment
Increased MGNREGA wages and expansion to urban areas
Strengthening of public health, education, and civic services
The Bharat Bandh is expected to disrupt:
Banking and insurance services
Postal operations
Coal mining and industrial production
State-run public transport
Government offices and public sector units
Rural areas may see farmer-led rallies and protests
Schools and colleges will function as usual
Private offices are expected to remain open
Trains are not officially part of the strike, but minor delays are possible