Bharat Bandh today: From bus stands to markets, how are people affected? | WATCH
A nationwide Bharat Bandh (general strike) is being observed today, 12 February 2026, after a joint platform of central trade unions announced the shutdown to protest what they describe as “anti-worker, anti-farmer and pro-corporate” policies of the central government.
Who has called the strike?
The bandh has been called by a joint platform of trade unions, including:
INTUC, AITUC, HMS, CITU, AIUTUC, TUCC, SEWA, AICCTU, LPF and UTUC
The Samyukt Kisan Morcha (SKM) has also extended its support.
What are the demands?
The unions have outlined several demands, including:
- Scrapping of the four new Labour Codes and related rules notified in November 2025
- Withdrawal of the Draft Seed Bill
- Withdrawal of the Electricity Amendment Bill
- Withdrawal of the SHANTI Act
- Restoration of MGNREGA
- Scrapping of the Viksit Bharat – Guarantee for Rozgar and Ajeevika Mission (Gramin) Act, 2025
- Opposition to the proposed India-US trade deal
How is the Bharat Bandh affecting people across India?
Odisha
In Bhubaneswar, the bandh is visible with major roads quiet and public transport disrupted. The strike is being supported by unions representing agricultural, rural and informal workers.
West Bengal
A nationwide strike is being observed in Kolkata, with visuals showing limited vehicular movement and shutdown of key commercial areas.
Punjab (Patiala)
At the Patiala bus stand, commuters have reported long delays. One traveller said:
“I have been standing at the bus stand for 1 hour, I need to go to Mohali for my job. No one is informing anything…”
Kerala (Wayanad)
Visuals from Wayanad show the strike being observed in full force, with shops shut and public transport affected. The bandh is being observed as trade unions and farmers unite against anti-worker labour policies.
Kerala (Malappuram)
In Malappuram, shopkeepers shut their shops in solidarity with the nationwide Bharat Bandh against what protesters call anti-worker labour policies and anti-farmer economic measures.
Kerala (Thiruvananthapuram)
KSRTC workers’ unions and private bus associations have extended support to the nationwide strike. Public transport services have been significantly impacted.
Advisory for travellers
Authorities and travel agencies are urging commuters to prepare for possible delays. Travellers are advised to:
- Reconfirm railway and airline schedules
- Use private vehicles where feasible
- Avoid protest zones prone to blockades
- Follow local news, traffic advisories and public-service updates
- Allow extra time to reach airports and major transit hubs