India is gearing up for a major nationwide general strike, or Bharat Bandh, on Wednesday, July 9, with over 25 crore workers from government and public sectors likely to join the protest. The strike is likely to cause major disruptions across banking, transport, mining, and postal services, though schools and private offices are expected to stay open.

Who is behind the Bharat Bandh?

The strike has been organized by a joint platform of 10 central trade unions, supported by several farmer and rural worker groups. The protest is aimed at voicing opposition to what they describe as the central government’s “anti-worker, anti-farmer, and pro-corporate” policies.

“The farmers and rural workers will also join the protest across the country,” said Amarjeet Kaur, leader of the All India Trade Union Congress (AITUC).

Why are workers protesting?

The unions have raised multiple concerns, including:

  • Implementation of four new labor codes that they say reduce workers' rights.
  • Rising unemployment and inflation.
  • Cuts in funding for healthcare, education, and basic services.
  • The hiring of retired staff over fresh youth recruitment.
  • The absence of a national labor conference in the last decade.
  • Policies that make life harder for migrant workers.
  • Use of Public Security Bills to suppress protests.

The protesters are calling for the withdrawal of the four labor codes, the restoration of rights to unionise and strike, more job creation, and better public services.

Who’s participating in the strike?

The strike will see participation from workers in both formal and informal sectors. Key organizations taking part include:

  • AITUC (All India Trade Union Congress)
  • INTUC (Indian National Trade Union Congress)
  • CITU (Centre of Indian Trade Unions)
  • HMS (Hind Mazdoor Sabha)
  • SEWA (Self-Employed Women’s Association)
  • LPF (Labour Progressive Federation)
  • UTUC (United Trade Union Congress)

Farmers’ organizations like the Samyukta Kisan Morcha and rural workers’ unions are also expected to take part, along with employees from railways, NMDC Ltd, and steel plants.

What services will be affected?

The strike is expected to hit several key services:

  • Banks and insurance offices
  • Postal services
  • Coal mining and industrial output
  • State-run public transport
  • Government offices and public sector units
  • Farmer-led protests in rural areas

Harbhajan Singh Sidhu of HMS said, “Banking, postal, coal mining, factories, and state transport services will be affected due to the strike.”

What will remain open?

  • Schools and colleges will function normally
  • Private offices are expected to stay open
  • Train services haven’t confirmed participation but delays may occur