Bharat Bandh: What Will Be Closed, What Will Stay Open
India is bracing for a significant disruption as a nationwide strike, known as the Bharat Bandh, is set to take place on July 9, 2025, on Wednesday. Called by a forum of 10 central trade unions and their affiliates, the strike protests what they describe as the government’s “anti-worker, anti-farmer, and pro-corporate policies.” With over 25 crore workers expected to participate, the Bharat Bandh will likely impact various sectors, though some services will remain operational.
Here’s a detailed look at what will be affected and what will stay open during this nationwide action.
Bharat Bandh: Sectors Facing Disruption
The Bharat Bandh is poised to halt operations across several key sectors. Banking and insurance services are expected to be significantly affected, with many public sector banks likely to close or operate with limited staff. Harbhajan Singh Sidhu of the Hind Mazdoor Sabha stated, “Banking, postal, coal mining, factories, and state transport services will be affected due to the strike.” Postal operations, including post offices, may shut down entirely or face severe delays, disrupting mail and parcel services nationwide.
Coal mining and industrial production are also set to take a hit, with workers in these sectors joining the strike. Public sector units and government offices are expected to see reduced operations, as many employees align with the trade unions’ call. State-run public transport, including buses and local transport services, could face significant disruptions, particularly in urban centres, potentially leaving commuters stranded or reliant on private alternatives.
In rural areas, farmer-led rallies are planned, which could block roads and affect local commerce. These protests aim to highlight grievances over agricultural policies, adding to the widespread impact of the Bandh. While the scale of participation may vary by region, the collective action is expected to create a ripple effect across India’s economy and daily life.
Bharat Bandh: What Will Remain Open?
Despite the widespread strike, certain sectors will continue to function. Schools and colleges are expected to remain open, ensuring that education is not disrupted. Parents and students can take some comfort in knowing that academic schedules should proceed as normal, barring any local protests that might affect access.
Private offices are also likely to operate without interruption, as the strike primarily involves public sector workers and trade union members. Businesses in the private sector, including IT firms, retail, and other industries, are expected to maintain normal operations, providing some continuity amidst the chaos.
Railway services, a critical lifeline for millions, have not been officially included in the strike. However, there are concerns about possible delays due to protests or reduced staffing at stations. Travellers are advised to check train schedules in advance and allow extra time for journeys.
In states like Assam, Tamil Nadu, Kerala, and West Bengal, a bandh-like situation is anticipated, with buses, autos, shops, and factories likely to shut down.
