Bharat Bandh 9 July: Are schools, colleges closed tomorrow as 10 unions to demonstrate nationwide strike against Modi govt

A nationwide general strike has been called for July 9 by a joint platform of 10 central trade unions, in coordination with various farmers’ and rural workers’ organisations. The strike is a protest against what they allege are the Centre’s "anti-worker, anti-farmer, and pro-corporate" policies. With over 25 crore workers expected to join, the bandh could have a major impact on public life across the country.

The protest has garnered strong backing from trade unions in sectors such as banking, insurance, postal services, coal mining, highways, construction, and state transport. Farmer groups, including the Samyukta Kisan Morcha, have also extended support, amplifying the movement’s reach. While railway unions have not officially joined, disruptions to essential services are still expected.

Read more: Bharat Bandh 9 July: What’s open, what’s closed? Will schools, banks, offices, train services be affected as 25 cr workers go on strike tomorrow?

Bharat Bandh 9 July: Will schools, colleges remain open?

Despite the scale of the strike, no official order has been issued for the closure of schools, colleges, or government offices, which are expected to remain open. However, disruptions to public transport may lead to delays for students, teachers, and office-goers. In previous strikes of this nature, participation levels varied across regions, with some last-minute local announcements impacting the functioning of educational institutions.

Bharat Bandh 9 July: Why are unions protesting?

The trade unions have put forward 17 long-pending demands, accusing the government of ignoring them. A key grievance is the decade-long delay in convening the Indian Labour Conference, a crucial platform for worker-related discussions. The unions have also strongly opposed the four labour codes passed by Parliament, claiming they undermine workers’ rights, weaken trade unions, increase working hours, and decriminalise violations by employers.

Protesters have further slammed the Centre’s continued push for privatisation of public assets and services. A major flashpoint is the proposed privatisation of power distribution companies in Uttar Pradesh, which has led to over 27 lakh power sector employees pledging to join the strike. Organisers argue that government policies are increasingly skewed in favour of corporate interests, sidelining the welfare of workers and the general public.

Which sectors will be affected?

• Banking and financial services
• Postal services
• Coal mining and factories
• State transport
• Public sector units
• Employees from companies like NMDC and other government-run steel and mineral firms are also expected to join the strike.