Bharat Bandh on July 9: Over 25 Crore Workers Strike Nationwide Against Govt Policies
India witnessed widespread disruption on July 9, 2025, as more than 25 crore workers across sectors joined a nationwide general strike (Bharat Bandh) to protest against what they termed as “anti-worker, anti-farmer, and pro-corporate” government policies.
The strike, organized by a forum of ten major central trade unions, impacted public transport, banking, postal services, mining, and other critical sectors. The movement also received support from farmer groups and rural workers, amplifying its nationwide scale.
❓ What Triggered the Bharat Bandh?
The unions are protesting:
- Privatization of public sector units and services
- Implementation of controversial labour codes
- Increased casualization and outsourcing of jobs
- Rising unemployment, wage stagnation, and cuts in social spending
- Alleged efforts to suppress trade union rights
- Attempts to alter electoral rights of migrant workers
They had earlier submitted a 17-point charter of demands to the government but claim no meaningful action was taken.
🛠️ Who Is Participating?
The strike was led by major trade unions including:
- All India Trade Union Congress (AITUC)
- Indian National Trade Union Congress (INTUC)
- HMS, CITU, SEWA, AICCTU, AIUTUC, and others
Employees from NMDC, state-run enterprises, and non-coal mining companies have joined the movement. Support also came from the Samyukta Kisan Morcha and agricultural worker unions.
🕒 When Did the Strike Begin?
The protest began early on Wednesday, July 9, and continued throughout the day. It follows past major strikes held on November 26, 2020, March 28–29, 2022, and February 16, 2024.
📣 What Are the Demands?
Key worker demands include:
- Job creation and recruitment against sanctioned vacancies
- Extension of MGNREGA with increased wages and urban job guarantees
- Withdrawal of labour codes
- Restoration of worker rights such as collective bargaining and right to strike
- Increased government spending on health, education, and basic services
🚧 What’s the Impact on Public Services?
- Public Transport: Buses, taxis, and app-based cabs faced significant disruption
- Banking: Services in several regions slowed due to high worker participation
- Mining & Postal Services: Reports of slowdowns and shutdowns
- Schools, colleges, and private offices: Largely remained open
While railway unions have not formally confirmed a strike, commuters experienced delays in several zones due to blocked routes and protest activity.
