Massive Bharat Bandh Scheduled For July 9
India will see a major nationwide strike on Wednesday, July 9, 2025, called by a coalition of ten central trade unions along with farmers and rural labour organisations. Branded as “Bharat Bandh,” this protest aims to oppose the central governments policies, which the organisers claim favour corporates and undermine worker rights.
Over 25 crore workers are expected to join from various sectors, both formal and informal.
Who Is Participating In The Strike?
The strike is supported by some of the largest and oldest trade unions in the country. These include:
- Indian National Trade Union Congress (INTUC)
- All India Trade Union Congress (AITUC)
- Centre of Indian Trade Unions (CITU)
- Hind Mazdoor Sabha (HMS)
- Self Employed Womens Association (SEWA)
- Labour Progressive Federation (LPF)
- United Trade Union Congress (UTUC)
- Trade Union Coordination Centre (TUCC)
- All India United Trade Union Centre (AIUTUC)
- All India Central Council of Trade Unions (AICCTU)
Workers from sectors such as coal mining, transport, steel, and postal services are also expected to participate.
Whats Likely To Be Affected?
Banking Services:
Though there is no official confirmation from banking unions, organisers claim that employees from public sector and cooperative banks will participate. This may disrupt cheque clearances, branch operations, and customer services.
Public Transport:
State transport services and taxis may be partially disrupted. Traffic slowdowns are expected in major cities as protest marches and road blockades take place. Daily commuters should prepare for longer travel times and possible delays.
Schools, Colleges, Offices:
Educational institutions and private offices are likely to stay open. However, transport disruption may affect attendance and operations in some areas.
Railways:
Railway unions have not formally joined the strike. However, localised protests near railway stations or tracks may lead to train delays or increased security in sensitive zones. No nationwide rail shutdown is expected.
Why Are Workers And Farmers On Strike?
The trade unions accuse the government of ignoring their long-pending demands, including:
- Holding the Indian Labour Conference
- Withdrawing the four new labour codes
- Ending contract-based hiring
- Stopping privatisation
- Increasing public sector recruitment and wages
They also protest against rising unemployment and inflation, and reduced spending on welfare sectors like health and education.
Rural India Joins In
Farmer groups including Samyukta Kisan Morcha have pledged support. They plan to mobilise protestors in rural regions against government policies they say have worsened the economy for farmers and rural labourers.
Additional Issues Raised
The unions are also protesting:
- Alleged misuse of constitutional institutions
- Laws targeting protestors, like the Maharashtra Public Security Bill
- Voter list revisions that may disenfranchise migrant workers
- Threats to citizenship rights
What To Expect On July 9
With massive support from across industrial and rural India, the July 9 Bharat Bandh is expected to cause disruption in many sectors. While essential services may remain operational in some regions, commuters and citizens should prepare for possible delays, traffic diversions, and limited public transport options.
Stay informed and plan accordingly.
