Samyukta Kisan Morcha (SKM) and 10 major central trade unions of the country have called for Bharat Bandh on 12 February. This bandh has been called in protest against the India-US interim trade agreement, the economic policies of the central government and new labor laws. The movement has the support of many national unions including INTUC, AITUC, CITU, HMS. Organizations claim that around 30 crore workers can participate in this strike.
Many bank unions are also joining in support of the bandh, due to which banking services are expected to be affected. Unions like AIBEA, AIBOA and BEFI have decided to join the strike, due to which the functioning of public sector banks may be affected.
On which issues is Bharat Bandh observed?
Farmers, laborers and employee organizations have raised many demands regarding the policies of the central government. Major demands include opposition to the India-US interim trade agreement, demand for withdrawal of four new labor codes, opposition to privatization of government undertakings, restoration of the old pension scheme (OPS), increase in minimum wages, protection of rights of construction and power sector workers and changes in agricultural policies. Bus, auto-rickshaw and truck unions in many states are also likely to join the strike, which could have a widespread impact on transport services.
Which services will be affected?
Transport services may be affected in many states. Public and private transport may be disrupted due to support from bus, auto and truck unions. There is a possibility of impact on the traffic system in big cities. In banking services, counter services in public sector banks may remain slow and delay in check clearance is possible. However, banks will not remain formally closed. Online banking, digital payments and ATM services will continue as normal. Markets and business may also be affected.
Many trade organizations and markets have supported the strike, due to which wholesale and retail markets may remain partially or completely closed. In government offices, there may be less presence of employees in departments influenced by trade unions, due to which the work may slow down. The local administration can take decisions regarding schools and colleges as per the situation. Due to transport and security reasons, holiday may be declared in some districts.
Which services will remain normal?
Hospitals, ambulances and other emergency services will continue as normal. Fire department, air travel and airport operations will not be affected. Digital banking and ATM services will also remain operational.
Will banks remain closed on 12th February?
February 12 has not been declared an official holiday by the Reserve Bank of India or any bank. Branches will remain open, but there may be partial disruption in services due to union participation. If you are planning to go out on 12th February, then check the condition of the transport system of your city in advance. If possible, handle banking tasks online and check local updates before going to the market or government office.
