Karnataka bandh on Feb 12: Are schools and colleges closed? Check latest updates
As Karnataka joins a nationwide Bharat Bandh on Thursday, February 12, 2026, students, parents, and school authorities are watching closely to see whether schools will remain open amid a mass protest called by trade unions and farmers’ organisations that is expected to affect public services across the state and the country.
The strike, being held as part of a Bharat Bandh called by at least ten central trade union federations along with major farmers’ groups, aims to put pressure on the government over labour reforms, economic policies, and other demands.
Millions of workers are expected to participate, and more than 30 crore workers nationwide could be on strike.
Also read: Bharat Bandh on February 12: What’s open, what’s closed across India; check full list
Bandh impact and why it matters
Under the banner of the strike, unions have protested against the Centre’s four new labour codes, contending these weaken worker rights and job security. The bandh has also drawn support from sections of farmers’ organisations, which have voiced broader economic and policy grievances.
In Karnataka, the protest is expected to slow business activity in urban centres like Bengaluru, Mysuru, and Hubballi, where teacher and student bodies also participate alongside labour unions. Public transport, markets, banks, and government offices could see varying degrees of disruption.
Schools: closed or open?
As of the latest official updates, there has been no blanket government order to close schools across Karnataka on February 12. State education authorities have not formally declared a holiday for schools and colleges, meaning most institutions are scheduled to open and operate as usual.
However, local conditions are shaping the ground reality:
In some districts and cities where union support for the bandh is strong, individual schools may announce closures or leave it to parents’ discretion whether children attend.
Disruptions in public transport or safety concerns in neighbourhoods with protests could lead to practical closures even without a government directive. Parents in cities across Karnataka are being advised to check official communication from their schools and stay alert for last-minute notices.
In past bandhs, school closures have often been locally decided based on security assessments; officials may invoke similar judgment this Thursday if protests escalate.
Due to the bandh’s impact varying widely even within a state, educationists and authorities have urged parents to confirm with their schools directly and avoid risking travel through areas that may see demonstrations or traffic disruptions.
Wider effects on daily life
Beyond schooling, the Bharat Bandh’s effects are being felt across sectors:
- Transport: Bus and rail services are expected to see delays or reduced frequency in various districts.
- Banks and offices: While essential services and emergency departments will generally operate, public sector banks and government offices may see lower staffing or temporary closure in some locations.
- Markets and shops: Local businesses in areas with active protest participation may choose to shut early or remain closed for the day.
What residents are being advised
Authorities in Karnataka and across India have urged the public to exercise calm, plan any necessary travel, and check for real-time updates from schools, transport providers and local administration. In sectors likely to be most affected, flexibility and contingency planning are being encouraged.
Bottom line: No official state order has mandated closure of schools in Karnataka on February 12, 2026, but due to the Bharat Bandh and associated uncertainties, parents and students may see localized closures or disruptions, and should stay updated with their individual school authorities.