
Bharat Bandh On July 9: What's Open, What's Closed
The strike, which is expected to significantly disrupt public services and industrial operations, has been called to oppose the new labour codes
A massive countrywide strike is set to take place on Wednesday, July 9, as over 25 crore workers affiliated with central and sectoral trade unions go on a Bharat Bandh.
The strike, which is expected to significantly disrupt public services and industrial operations, has been called to oppose the new labour codes, privatisation of public assets, and to press for demands such as a minimum wage of Rs 26,000 and restoration of the old pension scheme.
This will mark the 22nd general strike since the introduction of liberalisation policies in 1991.
Who Is Calling The Strike?
The Bharat Bandh has been organised by a joint forum of 10 central trade unions, representing a broad coalition of workers across both formal and informal sectors. These include the Indian National Trade Union Congress (INTUC), All India Trade Union Congress (AITUC), Hind Mazdoor Sabha (HMS), Centre of Indian Trade Unions (CITU), All India United Trade Union Centre (AIUTUC), Trade Union Coordination Centre (TUCC), Self Employed Women's Association (SEWA), All India Central Council of Trade Unions (AICCTU), Labour Progressive Federation (LPF), and the United Trade Union Congress (UTUC).
What Are The Demands?
According to the unions' joint statement, the central government's policies are 'anti-worker, anti-farmer, and pro-corporate." The unions also submitted a 17-point charter of demands, which includes:
The strike was earlier scheduled for May 20 but was postponed after the Pahalgam terror attack and subsequent Operation Sindoor.
Public Transport
Public transport in major cities could face disruptions due to road blockades and union-led marches. Local bus services, auto-rickshaws, and app-based taxis may be limited in availability, especially in states with strong union presence such as West Bengal, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, and Maharashtra.
Indian Railways is not officially participating in the strike, but some union-led protests at railway stations may cause delays.
Educational Institutions, Offices
Schools, colleges, and private businesses are likely to remain open, unless local authorities issue advisories or protest activity leads to closures. So far, no state government has announced official closure of educational institutions.
Government offices and public sector units may see a drop in attendance. However, essential services are expected to function.
What Will Remain Open?
Hospitals, emergency health services, and police operations are expected to function as usual. Essential services such as electricity and water supply are not expected to be affected. Retail shops, malls, and restaurants are likely to remain open, depending on local conditions.
(With inputs from agencies)
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