India is witnessing a nationwide shutdown today as major trade unions press the pause button on work to make their voices heard. From banking and transport to public sector units, employees across sectors are participating in what organisers describe as a decisive protest against the Centre’s economic and labour policies.
The Bharat Bandh has been called by a joint platform of central trade unions, which claim that crores of workers from formal and informal sectors are backing the strike. According to union leaders, employees from banking, insurance, postal services, coal mining, steel, power and transport are among those expected to join. Farmer organisations and rural workers’ groups have also extended support in several states, amplifying the scale of the agitation.
At the heart of the protest are objections to the government’s labour codes, which unions argue dilute workers’ rights and weaken collective bargaining. The unions are also opposing the ongoing privatisation of public sector enterprises, claiming it threatens job security. Rising prices, unemployment and what they describe as inadequate wage growth are other key issues driving the mobilisation. Protesters are demanding a minimum wage guarantee, restoration of the old pension scheme for government employees, and stronger protections for contractual and gig workers.
In many cities, demonstrations, rallies and road blockades are planned. Essential services such as hospitals and emergency utilities are expected to function, but commuters may face disruptions in banking operations, public transport and government offices. While schools and private offices in some regions are operating as usual, local administrations have been placed on alert to maintain law and order.
The Centre, however, has maintained that recent reforms aim to streamline labour regulations and improve ease of doing business. Officials argue that changes are designed to attract investment and generate employment in the long term.
As the bandh unfolds, its impact will depend on participation levels across states. Beyond immediate disruptions, the larger question remains: can this show of strength force a policy rethink, or will it deepen the standoff between organised labour and the government?
