India is likely to witness widespread disruption on February 12, 2026, as a nationwide strike popularly referred to as Bharat Bandh has been called by central trade unions with strong support from farmers’ organisations. The strike is expected to impact daily life across several states, affecting banking services, transportation, and normal business activities, especially in public sector institutions.
The protest comes at a time when tensions are already high over the recently announced India-US trade deal, which has drawn sharp criticism from farmer groups even as economic experts have largely welcomed it.
Why Has Bharat Bandh Been Called?
The nationwide strike has been called by a joint platform of 10 central trade unions, including CITU, AITUC, INTUC, HMS, AICCTU, LPF and UTUC. The unions are protesting against the government’s four new labour codes, which replaced 29 existing labour laws last year.
According to union leaders, these labour codes weaken workers’ rights, reduce job security, and make it easier for employers to hire and fire workers. They have also raised concerns over privatisation, stagnant wages, lack of social security, and what they describe as increasing pressure on the working class.
Farmers’ Anger Over India–US Trade Deal
Farmers’ organisations, including the Samyukt Kisan Morcha (SKM) and All India Kisan Sabha (AIKS), have extended full support to the strike. Their anger stems largely from the proposed interim trade agreement framework between India and the United States.
In a statement issued on Saturday, SKM termed the trade deal a “total surrender” of Indian agriculture to American multinational corporations. The group has alleged that opening Indian markets to products such as dairy items, animal feed, soybean oil, and other agricultural imports could severely impact domestic farmers.
SKM has also demanded the resignation of Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal, accusing him of misleading farmers on the inclusion of dairy products in free trade agreements with countries like the UK, New Zealand, and the European Union.
AIKS leader Krishna Prasad warned that the deal could have long-term consequences for India’s agriculture and dairy sectors, stating that similar trade agreements signed by the US and EU mainly serve their own economic interests.
Bank Services Likely to Be Hit
Banking services are expected to be among the most affected on February 12. Employees and officers of public sector banks have announced their participation in the strike. Major banking unions, including the All India Bank Employees Association (AIBEA), AIBOA, and BEFI, have urged their members to join the protest.
This will be the second major bank strike in less than a month, following a nationwide strike by bank employees on January 27. Customers may face difficulties in branch operations, cheque clearances, cash deposits and withdrawals, and other routine banking services.
Bharat Bandh: What Will Be Closed on February 12?
- Public sector bank branches
- Government offices in several states
- Public transport services in some regions
- Educational institutions in states like Kerala
- Markets and shops in areas witnessing protests
- Possible “chakka jam” (road blockades) in select locations
Bharat Bandh: What Is Likely to Remain Open?
- Private offices (depending on local conditions)
- Emergency services such as hospitals and ambulances
- Airports and essential utilities
- Online banking and ATM services (may function with limitations)
Protests Across Villages and Cities
Farmer unions have announced protests across villages and towns, with plans to burn effigies of US President Donald Trump and Prime Minister Narendra Modi as a mark of protest against the trade deal. Trade unions have also called for large-scale demonstrations in urban centres.
With workers, farmers, and bank employees joining hands, the Bharat Bandh on February 12 is expected to have a significant nationwide impact. Citizens are advised to plan their travel, banking, and official work in advance to avoid inconvenience.
