As per the latest news reports, a nation-wide strike has been called across key sectors on Wednesday, July 9, which will likely see participation of more than 25 crore workers. The call for protest comes from a joint platform of 10 central trade unions, supported by farmers’ and rural workers’ organisations, to oppose the central government’s policies that the unions deem “anti-worker, anti-farmer, and pro-corporate”.Here are the 10 key takeaways from the July 9 Bharat Bandh and details on what services might be impacted:
Who is behind the Bharat Bandh?
A coalition of 10 major trade unions is organising the strike. These include INTUC, AITUC, CITU, HMS, AIUTUC, AICCTU, SEWA, LPF, UTUC, and TUCC. The unions have come together under a common platform to protest against the government’s labour and economic policies.
Why the strike now?
The protest centres around 17 unmet demands that unions had submitted to Labour Minister Mansukh Mandaviya last year. The most important among the complaints is the government’s failure to address labour grievances or hold the long-overdue Indian Labour Conference, which hasn’t taken place in a decade. Read more: 6 must-visit stops along the Bengaluru–Mysuru–Coorg scenic route
Labour codes at the heart of discontent
Unions have strongly opposed the four labour codes passed by Parliament. They allege these codes dilute workers’ rights, reduce union power, increase working hours, and decriminalise employer violations of labour laws.
Accusations of corporate bias
In a joint statement, the trade unions accused the government of shifting away from the concept of a welfare state and instead prioritising the interests of Indian and foreign corporations. They allege that the current administration is actively promoting policies that drive privatisation, outsourcing, and the casualisation of labour.
Which sectors will be affected?
Several major industries are expected to witness disruptions, including:
- Banking and financial services
- Postal services
- Coal mining and factories
- State transport
- Public sector units
- Employees from companies like NMDC and other government-run steel and mineral firms are also expected to join the strike.
Will banks be closed?
While banking unions haven’t officially confirmed closures, the organisers say employees from public sector and cooperative banks will participate, potentially affecting branch operations, cheque clearance, and customer services in several areas. Read more: 10 largest aquariums in the world that are worth visit once in a lifetime
Support from farmers and rural workers
The Samyukta Kisan Morcha and various agricultural labour unions have lent their support. They are planning large-scale mobilisations in rural areas, citing concerns over rising unemployment, inflation, and cuts in education, healthcare, and welfare schemes.
What about schools, colleges, and offices?
Educational institutions and private offices are expected to remain open, but some disruptions can’t be ruled out. Public transport, including buses, taxis, and app-based cab services, may be affected in select cities due to roadblocks and protest marches.
What remains open?
Schools, colleges, and private businesses will likely stay open unless local circumstances dictate otherwise.Essential services like hospitals, emergency services, and police are expected to function normally, although road access might be temporarily disrupted in certain locations.
Previous strikes by trade unions
This isn’t the first time the unions have rallied together. Similar nationwide strikes were held on November 26, 2020, March 28–29, 2022, and February 16, 2024, all drawing significant participation from the public and private sectors.So, tomorrow both urban centres and rural regions may see slowdowns in services, commuter delays, and heightened political activity. The organisers have urged workers across sectors to “make the strike a grand success,” while citizens are advised to plan their day accordingly.
