Bharat Bandh on February 12: The Indian working class is preparing for a nationwide general strike on Thursday (February 12, 2026), supported by unions representing agricultural, rural, and informal workers. The strike is jointly organized by fourteen national trade unions, including employees of the central and state civil services and teachers, labor groups from central and state public sector undertakings, and independent trade unions.
The farmers’ organization, the Samyukta Kisan Morcha (SKM), on Wednesday called on farmers to support the all-India general strike on Thursday. The trade unions have called this strike to demand the repeal of the four labor codes, the Electricity Bill 2025, the Seeds Bill 2025, and the Animal Husbandry and Animal Husbandry Act 2025.
Note before leaving home today
The Bharat Bandh will impact traffic, banks, and markets on February 12. Public transport is expected to be affected, leading to road blockages and disruptions to buses, taxis, and local trains. Market shops and restaurants may also remain closed. Airports are likely to operate normally, but travelers should allow extra time due to traffic congestion.
Will schools and colleges be closed?
No official nationwide holiday has been declared for schools, colleges, or educational institutions. However, in states like Kerala, Odisha, and West Bengal, schools and colleges are likely to remain closed due to strong local support for the strike. Parents should contact local school authorities for information.
Advice to Travelers
Travelers should be prepared for possible road blockades, known as “chakka jams,” in various areas. In areas severely affected by the protests, state-run buses and auto-rickshaws may be suspended. Although train services and flights will operate as scheduled, disruptions to local transport may make access to railway stations and airports difficult. Wholesale markets and retail shops are likely to remain closed in states with high levels of labor union activity.
Why will banks remain closed today?
Employee and officer organizations, including the All India Bank Employees Association (AIBEA), All India Bank Officers’ Association (AIBOA), and Bank Employees Federation of India (BEFI), have called for a united protest. As a result, public banking services may be affected.
Learn why Bharat Bandh is today and what are the demands.
A coalition of more than 10 trade unions, including INTUC, AITUC, HMS, CITU, AIUTUC, TUCC, SEWA, AICCTU, LPF, and UTUC, has called for a strike with the support of the Samyukta Kisan Morcha (SKM).
Repeal of the four new labor codes and rules notified in November 2025.
Withdrawal of the Seeds Bill, Electricity Amendment Bill, and the draft Peace Act.
Reinstatement of MGNREGA.
Protest against the Vikshet Bharat – Employment and Livelihood Mission (Rural) Act, 2025.
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