Bharat Bandh on July 9, 2025: What You Need to Know
A nationwide strike or “Bharat Bandh” has been announced for Monday, July 9, by various government employee unions across India. The strike is expected to cause major disruptions in public services, banking operations, schools, and transport systems in several parts of the country.
Who Called the Strike?
The bandh is being led by a coalition of:
- Central government employee unions
- State government staff associations
- Public sector employees, including those in railways, education, healthcare, postal services, and power distribution
It is being supported by over 25 crore (250 million) workers, making it one of the largest coordinated worker movements in recent years.
Why the Strike?
The key demands behind the protest include:
- Reinstatement of the Old Pension Scheme (OPS) – replacing the current National Pension System (NPS), which many workers claim is not financially viable for their retirement.
- Permanent employment for contract workers across government departments.
- Opposition to privatization in sectors like railways, defence, insurance, and banking.
- Better wages and working conditions, including timely pay scale revisions.
- Safeguards against labor code changes that allegedly dilute worker protections.
The movement reflects rising dissatisfaction among employees over pension reforms, contract employment trends, and privatization drives.
What Will Be Affected on July 9?
Here’s what may shut down or be disrupted during the Bharat Bandh:
Banks:
- Public sector banks are expected to remain closed or partially operational, especially in states like West Bengal, Kerala, Maharashtra, and Tamil Nadu.
- ATM services might be limited in some regions.
- Private banks are likely to remain open but may see reduced staff.
Schools & Colleges:
- Government schools and colleges in several states are expected to shut.
- Some private institutions may also choose to remain closed for safety reasons.
- Universities with significant employee union participation might suspend classes and exams.
Public Transport:
- Disruptions likely in state-run buses, especially in states where unions have joined the protest (e.g., Karnataka, Kerala, Punjab).
- Railway services could also be affected in select regions, though full-scale shutdowns are not confirmed.
Hospitals:
- Government hospitals may operate with limited staff.
- Emergency services will continue, but outpatient departments (OPDs) may face delays.
Markets & Businesses:
- Local businesses and vendors might voluntarily close depending on the region and the level of protest activity.
- Malls and corporate offices are expected to function normally, but staff absenteeism is possible.
Where Will the Strike Be Strongest?
The strike is expected to have a strong impact in states with a higher density of public sector workers and active labor unions:
- West Bengal
- Kerala
- Tamil Nadu
- Punjab
- Bihar
- Telangana
- Parts of Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra, and Delhi
Law enforcement agencies are on alert to manage potential road blockades, rallies, and public gatherings.
Government Response
The central government has notified departments to ensure minimal disruption, especially for essential services. Some states have issued advisories and asked district authorities to maintain order and prevent violence.
Final Note
If you’re in a major metro or tier-2 city, it’s advisable to:
- Check school/campus circulars
- Reschedule any public service errands (banks, RTO, municipal offices)
- Expect traffic congestion or diversions
- Stay updated through local news and police advisories
This Bharat Bandh highlights the growing voice of India’s workforce amid calls for pension security and equitable labor reforms.