Bharat Bandh Cripples Public Services in Several States as Trade Unions Protest Government Policies

New Delhi July 9, 2025: A nationwide general strike called by ten central trade unions (CTUs) on Wednesday, July 9, 2025, disrupted public transportation and essential services in several states, including Kerala, Jharkhand, and Puducherry. The protest, described by organizers as a Bharat Bandh, is aimed at opposing the Union government's labour and economic policies.

The strike, which drew support from employees across various sectors, centered around a 17-point charter of demands. Protesters accused the government of enacting anti-worker and pro-corporate policies and demanded better wages, social security, and job protection measures.

In Kerala, the bandh took full effect, bringing private and public transportation to a near standstill. Long-distance and local bus services were suspended, leaving hundreds of passengers — including families with children — stranded at railway stations and airports.

In Tamil Nadu, demonstrators affiliated with multiple trade unions blocked roads in Salem and other districts. A "road roko" (road blockade) was staged at Kottai in Salem, with large groups chanting slogans and waving union flags.

Despite the bandh’s wide reach, the Union Labour Ministry claimed on Tuesday (July 8) that around 213 unions — including the influential RSS-affiliated Bharatiya Mazdoor Sangh (BMS) — had communicated their decision not to participate in the strike.

However, the banking sector joined the strike in parts, following a declaration by an association of bank employees on Monday (July 7). Several branches across states remained shut or operated with limited staff, inconveniencing customers.

Public response to the strike was mixed across different regions. While urban centers like Delhi, Mumbai, and Bengaluru witnessed minimal disruption, industrial zones and rural pockets saw a more pronounced impact.

The CTUs have warned that Wednesday’s strike may be a precursor to more intensified nationwide agitation if the government does not respond positively to the workers’ demands.

Security was beefed up in sensitive areas, with police deployments to prevent untoward incidents. So far, no major violence has been reported.