Bharat Bandh: Over 25 Crore Workers Join Nationwide Strike Against Centre’s ‘Pro-Corporate’ Policies

Over 25 crore workers from various sectors across India are expected to participate in a nationwide strike today, protesting the central government’s policies that trade unions allege are anti-worker, anti-farmer, and excessively pro-corporate. Dubbed the Bharat Bandh, the protest has been jointly called by a forum of 10 central trade unions, with widespread disruption expected across public services.

Why the Strike?

At the heart of the protest is growing opposition to the four new labour codes passed by Parliament. Trade unions argue that these reforms weaken workers’ rights by:

• Making strikes more difficult to organize legally,

• Increasing working hours,

• Reducing penalties for employers who violate labour laws.

In addition to the labour codes, the strike is also a stand against:

• Privatisation of public sector enterprises,

• Increasing use of contract workers and outsourcing of jobs,

• Worsening unemployment and job insecurity across sectors.

The unions claim these changes benefit large corporations while eroding hard-won protections for workers and farmers.

“The Centre’s policies are not only anti-worker but anti-national,” said a representative from the joint forum of trade unions. “They threaten the country’s self-reliance and employment security.”

Bharat Bandh: Key Points to Know

• Public services hit: Disruption is expected in banking, transport, power, postal services, coal mining, industrial and rural production, and government offices.

• Education: Schools and colleges are expected to remain open, but transport disruptions may lead to delays.

• State-wise impact:

  • West Bengal: Protesters have blocked roads and railway stations, affecting rail services.

  • Odisha: National highways were blocked by union members during protests.

  • Bihar: Two simultaneous strikes — one against the revised electoral rolls (Bihar Bandh), and the other as part of the national trade union strike — have amplified the state’s shutdown.

What’s Next?

Trade unions have warned of escalating protests if their demands are not met. They are calling for:

• Withdrawal of the new labour codes,

• Halting privatisation of public assets,

• Job security for all workers,

• Concrete steps to tackle the unemployment crisis.

As the Bharat Bandh unfolds, the government has yet to issue an official response to the large-scale industrial action. However, the strike reflects a deepening divide between labour organizations and the Centre, with tensions unlikely to ease anytime soon.