Bharat Bandh on July 9: Bank Association Joins Strike; Will Banks, Schools, Electricity & Transport Shut Down?

India will witness a massive nationwide strike or Bharat Bandh on Wednesday, July 9, as over 25 crore workers across key public service sectors, including banking, insurance, postal, construction, and power, prepare to walk off the job. The strike has been called by a forum of 10 central trade unions to protest against what they describe as the central government's "anti-worker, anti-farmer, and pro-corporate policies."

Bank Strike Tomorrow on July 9

According to the Bengal Provincial Bank Employees Association (BPBEA), affiliated with the All India Bank Employees Association (AIBEA), major trade unions in the banking sector - including AIBEA, AIBOA, and BEFI have confirmed their participation in the general strike. The insurance sector has also announced its decision to join the agitation.

In a statement, the central trade union forum urged all workers across formal and informal sectors to ensure the "nationwide general strike is a grand success." Preparations are reportedly underway across industries, including banking, insurance, coal mining, state transport, factories, and power services.

Services Likely to Be Affected

The impact of the Bharat Bandh is expected to be widespread including the below

Banking and Financial Services: While there is no official bank holiday on July 9, banking services are likely to be significantly affected as multiple unions plan to join the strike.

Insurance and Postal Services: Employees in these sectors are also expected to participate, potentially delaying routine operations.

Transport and Factories: State transport services, especially in some states, may face disruptions. Industrial units and public sector factories may also see lower attendance.

Power Supply: Over 27 lakh power sector workers are reportedly expected to take part, which could result in electricity supply issues in certain areas.

Bharat Bandh on July 9: Will Schools and Colleges Remain Open?

As of now, no state governments have issued an official notification declaring a holiday for schools or colleges on July 9. Educational institutions are expected to remain open, although some regions may experience low attendance due to possible transportation disruptions.

What is Reason for July 9 Nationwide Strike?

The strike has been called in opposition to the central government's economic reforms, which trade unions argue favour corporates at the cost of workers and farmers. A statement from the bank employees' union told PTI that the protest is aimed at countering "pro-corporate economic reforms and anti-labour policies of the central government."

Harbhajan Singh Sidhu from the Hind Mazdoor Sabha told PTI that the strike would have a significant impact on several core sectors, including banking, coal mining, postal services, and public transport.

With such a large-scale mobilisation across multiple sectors, the Bharat Bandh on July 9 is expected to be one of the largest worker-led protests in recent years. Citizens are advised to plan accordingly and stay updated with local announcements.