In Hyderabad, a major Bharat Bandh is set for Thursday, February 12. Several labor and farmer unions, supported by left-wing parties, have called for this nationwide strike. The Congress Party has also extended its support, increasing the bandh’s backing. Participants will include farmers, workers, banking employees, public transport workers, and government staff. With an estimated 300 million people joining, disruptions are expected in banking services and public transport. Government offices and industrial areas are likely to halt activities. The 24-hour bandh begins at midnight on February 12.
The strike opposes the central government’s new labor codes, which replace 29 existing labor laws, arguing they reduce workers’ rights and job security. It also protests the India-US trade agreement and demands the revival of the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act. Ten major labor unions, including INTUC, AITUC, and CITU, along with farmer organizations, have united for the bandh. The Maoist Party is also supporting the strike.
Public sector banks, transport services, government offices, and markets might close due to the bandh. While some bank unions support the strike, banks will officially remain open, though services may be disrupted. Government bank employees nationwide have announced their participation, including associations like AIBEA and AIBOA. SBI confirmed a nationwide bank strike on February 12, and IDBI Bank received strike notices from unions. The transport sector, including auto and private vehicle drivers, is expected to participate, causing significant disruptions in services. Industrial work might halt, and educational staff have expressed full support. Shops and workers may also be absent. States like Kerala, Odisha, and Karnataka will feel the impact strongly. Essential services such as hospitals, medical services, ambulances, and fire services will continue. Those planning travel should consider local conditions, and cash can be accessed through ATMs. Government office visits are advised to be postponed.
No official statement about school closures has been released. However, political and student organizations supporting the bandh might push for class boycotts. With exams nearing, uncertainty looms over school and college closures. Some institutions might preemptively declare holidays.
