A nationwide strike, calledBharat Bandh, is scheduled for Thursday (February 12), called by a coalition of 10 central trade unions, aimed to address significant concerns regarding labour rights, privatisation, and wage policies affecting workers across India. The strike began at midnight on Thursday and will continue for 24 hours, impacting the daily lives of people.
The strike is organised by a coalition of trade unions, including the Indian National Trade Union Congress (INTUC), All India Trade Union Congress (AITUC), Hind Mazdoor Sabha (HMS), Centre of Indian Trade Unions (CITU), and several others. Their aim is to unite workers against government policies.
The trade union coalition called thestriketo oppose four new labour codes that replaced 29 existing labour laws in 2025. The unions argue that these codes undermine workers' rights and job security, making it easier for employers to dismiss employees without adequate justification.
Additionally, the unions have expressed concerns regarding ongoing privatisation efforts, stagnant wages, and inadequate social security provisions.
These demands reflect the unions' concern for safeguarding workers' rights and ensuring better working conditions for all.
Related News: Bharat Bandh February 12 LIVE
The nationwide strike has gathered significant support from various farmers' organisations, including the Samyukt Kisan Morcha (SKM) and the All India Kisan Sabha (AIKS).
These groups are particularly concerned about recent trade agreements that could adversely impact Indian agriculture. The SKM has labelled the interim India-US trade agreement as a "total surrender" of India's agricultural sovereignty to multinational corporations, further motivating their participation in the Bharat Bandh.
The trade unions are actively mobilising workers and supporters to participate in the strike. The organisers have planned demonstrations and mass gatherings at over 1,000 locations across India, with the unions encouraging workers, farmers, and agricultural workers to unite in this demonstration against government policies.
Amid the Bharat Bandh, significant disruptions to essential services are expected across all cities in India. Banking operations, public transport, and various other sectors may experience interruptions. Public sector banks, in particular, may face challenges in delivering services, impacting cash withdrawals, deposits, and cheque clearances.
Source: India Latest News, Breaking News Today, Top News Headlines | Times Now
