Nationwide Strike: Key Services Face Disruption as 250 Million Workers Protest Labor Policies

A nationwide strike is anticipated across crucial sectors on Wednesday, July 9th, potentially involving over 250 million workers, according to recent reports. Ten central trade unions, backed by farmer and rural worker organizations, have called for the Bharat Bandh to protest government policies they consider "anti-worker, anti-farmer, and pro-corporate."

Here's a breakdown of ten key aspects of the July 9th Bharat Bandh and its likely impact on services:

Who is spearheading the Bharat Bandh?

A coalition of ten prominent trade unions is orchestrating the strike. These unions include INTUC, AITUC, CITU, HMS, AIUTUC, AICCTU, SEWA, LPF, UTUC, and TUCC. They have united to voice their opposition to the government's labor and economic policies.

What are the reasons behind the strike?

The strike stems from 17 unresolved demands presented to Labour Minister Mansukh Mandaviya last year. A primary grievance is the government's perceived inaction in addressing labor concerns and its failure to convene the long-awaited Indian Labour Conference, which has not been held for a decade.

Labour Codes: The Core of the Dispute

The unions are strongly contesting the four labor codes approved by Parliament. They claim that these codes weaken worker protections, diminish union influence, extend working hours, and decriminalize employer violations of labor regulations.

Corporate Bias Allegations

In a joint declaration, the trade unions accused the government of forsaking the concept of a welfare state in favor of favoring both domestic and international corporations. They assert that the current administration is aggressively implementing policies that promote privatization, outsourcing, and the casualization of the workforce.

Which sectors are expected to be affected?

Several key industries are likely to experience 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-operated steel and mineral firms

Will banks remain open?

While banking unions haven't officially confirmed closures, organizers suggest that employees from public sector and cooperative banks will participate, potentially impacting branch operations, cheque clearing, and customer services in several regions.

Support from agricultural workers

The Samyukta Kisan Morcha and various agricultural labor unions have voiced their support. They are planning large-scale mobilizations in rural areas, citing concerns about rising unemployment, inflation, and cuts in education, healthcare, and welfare programs.

What about schools, colleges, and offices?

Educational institutions and private offices are anticipated to remain open. However, some disruptions are possible. Public transportation, including buses, taxis, and app-based cab services, may be affected in certain cities due to roadblocks and protest marches.

What services will remain operational?

Schools, colleges, and private businesses are expected to continue operating unless local conditions dictate otherwise.

Essential services such as hospitals, emergency services, and the police are projected to function normally, although road access may be temporarily affected in specific areas.

History of Trade Union Strikes

This is not the first instance of unions uniting in protest. Similar nationwide strikes occurred on November 26, 2020, March 28–29, 2022, and February 16, 2024, each drawing substantial participation from both the public and private sectors.

Consequently, both urban centers and rural areas may experience slowdowns in services, commuter delays, and increased political activity on Wednesday. Organizers are urging workers across sectors to "make the strike a grand success," while citizens are advised to plan their day accordingly.