A massive nationwide Bharat Bandh has been called for Wednesday, with over 25 crore workers expected to participate in a strike that could severely affect banking, transportation, postal services, and other key sectors. The strike is being organized by central trade unions in protest against various government policies affecting labor rights, public sector undertakings, and employment guarantees.
Major Sectors to be Disrupted During Bharat Bandh
The strike is likely to hit:
- Banking and financial services across both public and rural institutions
- Transportation networks, including buses, freight services, and some rail unions
- Post offices and insurance departments
- Workers in Anganwadi, ASHA, and MGNREGA sectors
Many state-level organizations and employee federations have expressed solidarity with the strike. Calling for rollback of labour law reforms, privatization efforts, and contract employment in government jobs.
Key Demands of the Strike
The protesting unions have outlined several demands, including:
- Withdrawal of the four labour codes, which they claim reduce worker protection
- Restoration of the old pension scheme
- Opposition to privatization of public sector enterprises
- Guaranteed minimum wages and better social security for informal workers
Organizers assert that the government’s current reforms are anti-worker and pro-corporate, leading to job insecurity and exploitation, particularly in the unorganized sector.
Public Impact and Precautions
The Bharat Bandh may lead to widespread disruptions in public services, especially in urban areas. Commuters are advised to plan ahead as transport services might be limited, and banking operations could face delays in transactions and branch activities.
Some state governments have put police and civil administration on alert, particularly in high-mobility zones and major cities. While schools, hospitals, and emergency services are expected to remain operational, delays and reduced staffing may occur.
Nationwide Mobilization of Workers
This coordinated action by trade unions represents one of the largest worker mobilizations in recent years. Unions claim the strike is not political but aimed at defending the rights of workers, farmers, and public sector employees.
With over 25 crore workers ready to walk out, Wednesday’s Bharat Bandh is set to send a strong message to the central government. The scale of participation reflects growing unrest over economic policies, labor laws, and the erosion of job security in multiple sectors.
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