Nationwide Bharat Bandh Sparks Major Disruptions in Banking Sector
A widespread Bharat Bandh is being enforced across India on Thursday, February 12, 2026, with significant impacts anticipated in the banking industry and other key sectors. This nationwide strike, supported by a coalition of prominent trade unions, is expected to affect operations in over 600 districts, as unions claim participation from nearly 30 crore workers.
Banking Services Face Operational Challenges
Despite the Reserve Bank of India not declaring a holiday, several public sector banks have warned of potential disruptions due to the strike. Major bank unions, including the All India Bank Employees' Association, All India Bank Officers' Association, and Bank Employees Federation of India, have backed the protest against the four new labour codes introduced by the government.
State Bank of India informed the Bombay Stock Exchange that services might be impacted to a limited extent, even with arrangements in place for normal functioning. Similarly, Bank of Baroda and UCO Bank have flagged possible operational delays. Customers are advised to check with local branches, as digital services are likely to remain functional, but branch operations and cheque clearances could experience significant slowdowns.
Union Coalition and Political Backing
The strike has garnered support from a broad spectrum of unions, such as:
- Indian National Trade Union Congress
- All India Trade Union Congress
- Hind Mazdoor Sabha
- Centre of Indian Trade Unions
- All India United Trade Union Centre
- Trade Union Coordination Centre
- Self-Employed Women's Association
- All India Central Council of Trade Unions
- Labour Progressive Federation
- United Trade Union Congress
In Punjab, the ruling Aam Aadmi Party has expressed solidarity with the strike, condemning what it terms as the Centre's anti-worker labour policies and anti-farmer decisions. The party has directed its cadre to join the shutdown, alleging that the new labour codes undermine job security and legal protections while granting employers increased flexibility in hiring and retrenchment.
Farmers' Opposition to Trade Deal
The Samyukt Kisan Morcha has stated that the bandh is part of a broader campaign against the India–US interim trade deal. SKM Convenor Hannan Mollah described the agreement as a betrayal, accusing the government of surrendering to US interests. He warned that cheaper imports could flood Indian markets, adversely affecting domestic farmers.
Government's Defence of Policies
In response, Union Minister Piyush Goyal defended the interim trade deal, calling it a milestone etched in golden letters in India's economic history. He emphasized that sensitive farm sectors have been protected, with safeguards for key agricultural products and dairy interests. Goyal asserted that Indian exports would gain zero-duty access to the US market, while no tariff concessions have been granted to US farm imports, aiming to allay concerns about domestic market impacts.
As the strike unfolds, the nation watches closely, with disruptions expected to ripple through various sectors, highlighting ongoing tensions over labour reforms and international trade agreements.
