Bharat Bandh Holiday on February 12: Will Banks, Schools, Colleges, Transport and Markets Remain Closed?

India has been gearing up for a massive nationwide strike — Bharat Bandh — on Thursday, February 12, 2026, as central trade unions and farmers’ organisations call for countrywide protests and work stoppages. The bandh is expected to affect multiple sectors, including government services, transport, banking and commercial activities.

The nationwide action has been called by a joint forum of 10 central trade unions — including INTUC, AITUC, CITU and others — as part of sustained opposition to new labour codes, which unions say weaken worker protections, worsen job security and reduce collective bargaining powers. Groups such as the Samyukt Kisan Morcha (SKM) and other farmers’ federations have extended full support to the protest, raising concerns about trade agreements and broader economic policies affecting agriculture and labour.

How Extensive Will the Strike Be?

Union leaders estimate that over 30 crore workers may participate in the strike across nearly 600 districts nationwide, surpassing the scale of previous mobilisations. Several states — including Odisha and Kerala — could witness near-total shutdowns with industries, public transport and commercial operations affected.

What May Be Impacted

• Government Offices and Schools

Many government offices are expected to see reduced attendance or closure in areas where protests are strong. Some schools and colleges might also close if local organisations and employees support the bandh or if transport services are disrupted.

• Banking and Financial Services

Public sector banks may face service interruptions as bank employees and officers join the strike. Major unions such as the All India Bank Employees’ Association have urged members to participate, although neither the RBI nor individual banks have declared a formal holiday. Customers could see delays in cash transactions, cheque clearances and branch services, while online banking and ATMs are expected to operate normally.

• Transport and Public Movement

Public transport may be disrupted in protest-affected regions due to rallies, road blockades or “chakka jams.” In states like Kerala, where trade union participation is strong, public buses and other services are likely to remain non-operational for the day.

• Markets and Businesses

Shops, marketplaces and commercial hubs may close or operate at reduced capacity, especially in areas where organisers call for solidarity with the strike action.

Services Likely to Continue

Essential services such as hospitals, emergency medical services, milk and essential supplies are expected to function normally nationwide. Airports and long-distance rail travel are also likely to continue, although local connectivity services may face delays.

Why the Strike?

Unions are demanding the repeal of the four new labour codes, arguing that they dilute workers’ rights and social security protections. They are also protesting other legislative measures and urging stronger safeguards for employment, wages and rural work programmes. Farmers’ groups oppose aspects of proposed international trade agreements, saying they could expose domestic producers to overwhelming competition from imports.