A massive nationwide strike, known as the Bharat Bandh, is set to paralyze India’s public services today, with over 25 crore workers from essential government sectors participating in the protest. The strike, organized by a joint forum of 10 central trade unions, supported by farmer and rural worker organizations, is aimed at protesting the central government’s policies, which they consider "anti-worker, anti-farmer, and pro-corporate."

The general strike is expected to significantly disrupt various public services. Banking and insurance services, postal operations, coal mining, state-run public transport, and government offices will be shut down across the country. With more than 27 lakh power sector workers joining the strike, electricity supply may also be affected. Although railways have not officially called for a strike, disruptions and delays are anticipated due to logistical impacts and protests at railway stations.

In addition to formal sector workers, the protest has seen participation from self-employed groups, informal sector workers, and farmers. Farmers' platforms like the Samyukta Kisan Morcha, which led the historic farmers’ protest against the now-repealed farm laws, have also expressed solidarity.

The main grievances include opposition to the new labour codes passed by Parliament, which trade unions argue erode workers' rights, increase working hours, and shield employers from penalties. The unions also protest the privatisation of public sector units, the outsourcing of jobs, and the widespread use of contract workers, which they claim threaten job security and fair wages.

This is not the first such strike, with similar protests taking place in 2020, 2022, and 2024, signaling a continued demand for pro-labour policies and the rollback of economic reforms perceived as detrimental to workers. As the strike unfolds, major disruptions are expected, particularly in services critical to daily life across the country.