As India enters a crucial phase on July 9, 2025, the state is likely to witness one of the biggest labour protests in recent times. With a population of 25 crore workers participating in the Bharat Bandh, other industries are likely to be shut down while trade unions and other civil organisations protest critical government policies. A report in the Indian Express by Zahgun Karim says that this is not a symbolic shutdown; it is a direct demand for structural change.
Why Bharat Bandh is Happening on 9 July 2025
The main issue of the Bharat Bandh focuses on labour reforms and financial grievances, as well as disappointment with the new privatisation drive. Employees of the affected sectors, like railways, banking, transport, and education, are at the forefront of this campaign. Protestors are also expecting to roll back new labour codes and disinvestment of PSUs, and improve wages and employment guarantees. This common action is a potent indication that the labourers in India are not ready to be threatened by what they refer to as anti-labour policies anymore.
What Will Be Affected: Transport, Banks, and Public Services
The cancellation of a mass-scale shutdown of the country implies disruptions. Local transport, state-run buses, and some train services have been cancelled. This may impact banking operations, especially public sector banks, where many bank employees will go on strike. Schools and colleges in different states may announce holidays, and attendance in state government offices may be low. The emergency services, on the other hand, would probably be spared to avoid inflicting inconvenience on the citizens.
Political and Social Impact: Will This Strike Change Anything?
Although Bharat Bandh is not a unique way of protest in India, the scale of this year’s strike may force the government to compromise. It has received support from leftist parties as well as Congress and regional parties. #BharatBandh2025 is becoming a popular hashtag on social media as more and more accounts are accessing updates about it. In the long term, this trend could force strategic reforms in labour law and economic policies that policymakers would consider controversial.
