A huge nationwide protest called the “Bharat Bandh” is set to disrupt India on July 9, 2025. Organized by 10 major trade unions and supported by farmers and rural workers, this strike involves over 25 crore people. It’s a response to government policies seen as favoring big businesses over workers and farmers. Expect disruptions in banking, public transport, and other services. Here’s a clear, straightforward guide to how the Bharat Bandh will impact your day and how to prepare.
Why Is the Bharat Bandh Happening?
The Bharat Bandh is a protest against government policies, including new labor laws, privatization of public companies, and economic challenges in rural areas. Ten major trade unions, like the Indian National Trade Union Congress (INTUC), All India Trade Union Congress (AITUC), and Hind Mazdoor Sabha (HMS), are leading the charge. They submitted a 17-point list of demands to Labour Minister Mansukh Mandaviya last year, but claim the government hasn’t addressed them. Farmers, led by the Samyukta Kisan Morcha, are also joining to protest unemployment, rising prices, and cuts in welfare programs. This strike is a united effort to demand better policies for workers and farmers.
Which Sectors Will Be Affected?
1. Banking Services: Limited Access Likely
The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) hasn’t declared July 9 a bank holiday, but many public sector and cooperative bank employees are expected to join the strike. This could disrupt services like cash withdrawals, cheque processing, and in-person customer support, especially in states like West Bengal, Kerala, Maharashtra, and Tamil Nadu, where unions are strong, according to the All India Bank Employees Association (AIBEA).
- What to Do: Finish important banking tasks before July 9. Use online banking, ATMs, or mobile apps, which should work normally. Contact your local branch for updates, especially in areas with active unions.
2. Public Transport: Expect Delays and Blockades
Public buses, taxis, and app-based cabs may face disruptions due to protests and road blockades, especially in big cities and industrial areas. In Uttar Pradesh, trade unions are planning “chakka jams” (road blockades), which could stop state-run buses. While railway unions aren’t officially part of the strike, protests near railway tracks could delay local trains in some states.
- What to Do: Plan for longer travel times and traffic detours. Use metro services if available, as they’re less likely to be affected. Check local news or social media for real-time traffic updates and consider alternative routes.
3. Postal Services and Government Offices
Postal services may be heavily impacted, with post offices possibly closing or running with limited staff. Government offices and public sector companies, like the National Mineral Development Corporation (NMDC) and state-run steel firms, will likely see reduced operations due to employee participation. Coal mines and industrial units may also shut down for the day.
- What to Do: Avoid scheduling postal or government tasks on July 9. Use online platforms for services like bill payments or document submissions if possible.
4. Schools, Colleges, and Private Offices
No official closures have been announced for schools, colleges, or private offices, so most are expected to stay open. However, transport disruptions could make it hard for students, teachers, and employees to commute, especially in cities with protests. Metro areas like Delhi, Mumbai, and Bengaluru may see lower attendance due to road blockades and limited public transport.
- What to Do: Check with schools or offices about their plans. Students and parents should watch for transport updates and allow extra travel time. Employees should ask about work-from-home options or flexible hours.
5. Essential Services: Hospitals and Emergencies Unaffected
Hospitals, police, ambulances, and fire services will operate as usual, as they’re exempt from the bandh. However, road blockades or traffic issues in protest-heavy areas could make it harder to reach these services.
- What to Do: Keep emergency contact numbers ready and plan routes to hospitals in advance. Avoid areas where protests are expected if possible.
Where Will the Impact Be Strongest?
The Bharat Bandh’s effects will differ across India, with some areas facing more disruptions:
- West Bengal, Kerala, Maharashtra, and Tamil Nadu: These states will likely see major disruptions in banking, transport, and public services due to strong union and farmer participation.
- Uttar Pradesh: The state is preparing for protests and road blockades, with increased security to manage rallies and maintain order.
- Delhi NCR, Bengaluru, and other big cities: Expect protest marches, road blockades, and reduced public transport, affecting daily commuters.
In states like Rajasthan, Karnataka, and Maharashtra, past bandhs have had milder impacts, with services like transport and banking often continuing normally in some areas.
How to Get Ready for the Bharat Bandh
To avoid problems on July 9, follow these simple steps:
- Banking: Complete urgent transactions by July 8 and use digital banking options like apps or ATMs.
- Travel: Use metro or private vehicles if possible. Stay updated on traffic conditions through news apps or social media.
- Work and School: Confirm if schools or offices are open and explore remote work or study options if commuting is difficult.
- Stay Informed: Follow trusted news sources and local authorities for updates on protests and service disruptions.
Why This Strike Is Important
The Bharat Bandh on July 9, 2025, is one of the largest coordinated protests in recent years, with 25 crore workers and farmers demanding changes to government policies. It highlights concerns about workers’ rights, privatization, and rural economic struggles. Amarjeet Kaur from AITUC said, “This strike is a powerful stand for workers and farmers against policies that harm their livelihoods.” The involvement of farmers’ groups like the Samyukta Kisan Morcha and support from opposition parties like Congress and AAP make this a significant event in India’s social and economic landscape.
Stay Prepared and Informed
The Bharat Bandh will likely disrupt daily life, especially banking and public transport. By planning ahead and staying updated, you can manage the day with less hassle. Follow local news, check platforms like X for real-time updates, and monitor official announcements from authorities.