On July 9, 2025, a massive nationwide strike, known as Bharat Bandh, swept across India, bringing public services to a standstill in several regions. In Rajasthan, government banks were shuttered as approximately 11,000 employees and officers from major public sector banks, including Punjab National Bank (PNB), Bank of India, Indian Bank, and Union Bank of India, joined the protest. This strike, backed by ten central trade unions, was a powerful demonstration against the central government’s policies, which workers and unions labeled as anti-worker, anti-farmer, and pro-corporate. In this comprehensive blog post, we’ll explore the reasons behind the Bharat Bandh, its impact on Rajasthan’s banking sector, the demands of the striking workers, and the broader implications for India’s economy and workforce. Let’s dive into the details of this significant movement and why it matters to every Indian.
What Is Bharat Bandh and Why Was It Called?
Bharat Bandh is a term used in India to describe a nationwide general strike or shutdown aimed at drawing attention to critical socio-economic issues. The July 9, 2025, Bharat Bandh was called by a coalition of ten central trade unions, including the All India Trade Union Congress (AITUC), Indian National Trade Union Congress (INTUC), Centre of Indian Trade Unions (CITU), Hind Mazdoor Sabha (HMS), Self-Employed Women’s Association (SEWA), Labour Progressive Federation (LPF), and United Trade Union Congress (UTUC). These unions, representing over 25 crore workers from both formal and informal sectors, united to protest against what they described as the central government’s anti-worker and anti-farmer policies.
The strike was not limited to the banking sector. Workers from diverse industries, including insurance, postal services, income tax, BSNL, coal, defense, Anganwadi, ASHA, mid-day meal schemes, medical representatives, farm laborers, and factory workers, participated in the demonstrations. Farmers’ groups like Samyukta Kisan Morcha, along with rural worker unions and public sector employees from Railways, NMDC Ltd, and steel industries, also extended their support. The unions presented a 17-point charter of demands, addressing issues ranging from labor rights to agricultural reforms, making this one of the most significant collective actions in recent years.
According to A.R. Sindhu, National Secretary of CITU, the strike aimed to mobilize workers from organized and unorganized sectors to protest against rising unemployment, increasing prices of essential commodities, wage depression, and reduced spending on social sectors like education and healthcare. The unions argued that the government’s economic policies have led to greater inequality, benefiting corporates while marginalizing the poor, low-income groups, and the middle class. The Bharat Bandh was a call to action to reverse these trends and restore worker and farmer rights.
Why Did Rajasthan’s Banking Sector Shut Down?
In Rajasthan, the banking sector was at the forefront of the Bharat Bandh, with all government banks closing their doors on July 9, 2025. Approximately 11,000 employees and officers from public sector banks such as PNB, Bank of India, Indian Bank, and Union Bank of India participated in the strike. Mahesh Mishra, General Secretary of the Rajasthan State Bank Employees Union, confirmed that major banking associations in the state supported the protest, emphasizing the unity among bank employees.
The closure of government banks disrupted regular banking operations across Rajasthan, affecting services such as deposits, withdrawals, cheque clearances, and loan approvals. However, private banks like ICICI Bank, HDFC Bank, and Axis Bank remained open, ensuring that some banking services were still available. Automated Teller Machines (ATMs) were also expected to remain functional, providing limited access to cash withdrawals for customers.
The striking bank employees planned to march to the Labour Commissioner’s office in Hasanpura, Jaipur, where they joined workers from other sectors for a joint demonstration. This collective action underscored the widespread discontent among workers and their determination to press for their demands. T.C. Jhalani, Secretary of the Rajasthan Pradesh Bank Employees Union and President of the PNB Employees Union, highlighted that the strike extended beyond banking, uniting workers from multiple sectors in a shared struggle against government policies.
Key Demands of the Striking Workers
The Bharat Bandh was driven by a comprehensive 17-point charter of demands, addressing critical issues affecting workers, farmers, and the general public. Here are the major demands that fueled the nationwide strike:
- Opposition to Bank Privatization: Bank employees strongly opposed the government’s push to privatize public sector banks, arguing that privatization threatens financial stability and public trust. They cited the privatization of IDBI Bank in 2019 and the merger of 14 public sector banks in recent years as examples of policies that undermine the banking sector’s role in serving the public.
- Reinstatement of the Old Pension Scheme (OPS): Workers demanded the restoration of the non-contributory Old Pension Scheme, which they believe provides better financial security for retirees compared to the New Pension Scheme (NPS). They also called for a minimum monthly pension of Rs 9,000 for Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) subscribers.
- Implementation of a Five-Day Banking Week: Bank employees sought a reduction in the working week to five days, aligning with global banking standards. This demand aims to improve work-life balance and enhance employee well-being.
- Ban on Outsourcing and Contractualization: The unions called for an end to outsourcing and the contract-based employment system, which they argue undermines job security and fair wages. They demanded adequate recruitment across sectors to fill vacant positions with permanent employees.
- Effective Recovery of Corporate Loans: Bank employees urged the government to implement stricter measures to recover non-performing assets (NPAs) from corporates, ensuring that public funds are not misused by large borrowers.
- Elimination of GST on Insurance Premiums: The unions demanded the removal of Goods and Services Tax (GST) on life and health insurance premiums, which they believe increases the financial burden on ordinary citizens.
- Minimum Wage of Rs 26,000 per Month: Workers across sectors called for a minimum monthly wage of Rs 26,000 to ensure a decent standard of living, along with equal pay for equal work.
- Scrapping of Four Labour Codes: The unions opposed the four new labour codes passed by Parliament, arguing that they weaken workers’ rights by increasing working hours, restricting the right to strike, and reducing employer accountability for labour law violations. They demanded the withdrawal of these codes to protect collective bargaining and job conditions.
- Agricultural Reforms: Supported by farmers’ groups like Samyukta Kisan Morcha, the unions demanded a Minimum Support Price (MSP) for crops based on the Swaminathan Commission’s formula of C2 plus 50%, along with a loan waiver for farmers to alleviate rural distress.
- Recognition of Scheme Workers: The unions called for formal recognition of scheme workers, such as Anganwadi, ASHA, and mid-day meal workers, as regular employees with access to social security benefits like ESIC coverage.
These demands reflect a deep-seated frustration with the government’s economic and labour policies, which the unions believe prioritize corporate interests over the welfare of workers and farmers. The Bharat Bandh was a platform to amplify these concerns and urge the government to take corrective action.
Impact of the Bharat Bandh Across India
The Bharat Bandh had a significant impact on public services across India, with disruptions reported in multiple sectors and regions. In Rajasthan, the closure of government banks was a major highlight, but the strike’s effects were felt nationwide. Here’s a closer look at how the Bharat Bandh affected different parts of the country:
- Kerala: The strike assumed the proportions of a bandh in Kerala, bringing normal life to a standstill. Shops and commercial establishments remained closed in districts like Kozhikode and Ernakulam, and public transportation was severely disrupted. Private buses stayed off the roads, and long-distance services were halted, inconveniencing passengers, including families arriving at railway stations and airports.
- West Bengal: Left supporters, particularly from the Communist Party of India (Marxist) (CPI(M)), attempted to enforce the bandh by blocking railway tracks in several areas, including Jadavpur, Durgapur, Lalgola, Barrackpore, and Diamond Harbour. Clashes erupted between protesters and police, who intervened to clear the tracks. Public transport services in Kolkata faced disruptions, with bus drivers wearing helmets for protection amid the protests.
- Tamil Nadu: In Erode, police attempted to disperse workers blocking roads, while protests were reported at Anna Salai in Chennai. The strike affected public transport and commercial activities in several cities.
- Telangana: In Hyderabad, trucks were parked outside the city as the labour strike intensified, and daily wage workers faced challenges due to closed shops. Public transport services were also affected.
- Jharkhand: Coal workers protested in Ranchi, highlighting the strike’s impact on the mining sector. The bandh disrupted industrial activities in the state.
- Odisha: Members of the Centre of Indian Trade Unions (CITU) blocked the national highway in Bhubaneswar, causing traffic disruptions. Train services were affected as protesters blocked tracks in various parts of the state.
- Bihar: Members of the Biju Janata Dal’s (RJD) students’ wing blocked train tracks at Jehanabad railway station, contributing to delays in rail services.
- Karnataka: The bandh had minimal impact in Bengaluru, where transport services operated as usual. However, a protest march was taken out in Mysuru, indicating localized support for the strike.
The Bharat Bandh disrupted essential services like banking, postal operations, electricity, coal and copper mining, and public transport in several states. Train operations faced delays due to protests near railway stations, and industrial production was affected in some regions. However, schools, colleges, and private offices remained open, ensuring that some aspects of daily life continued uninterrupted.
Why Now? The Timing of the Bharat Bandh
The Bharat Bandh was called in response to long-standing grievances, but its timing in July 2025 was strategic. A.M. Jigeesh, in the In Focus podcast by The Hindu, explained that the strike was a culmination of years of discontent with the government’s labour and economic policies. The four labour codes, passed by Parliament several years ago, have been a major point of contention, as they are perceived to undermine workers’ rights. The unions argue that these codes make it harder to strike, increase working hours, and shield employers from penalties for labour law violations.
Additionally, the government’s push for privatization of public sector units (PSUs), including banks and insurance companies, has intensified concerns about job security and public welfare. The unions also highlighted the rising cost of living, driven by inflation and GST, which has made essential commodities unaffordable for many. Corporate leaders’ calls for 70- to 90-hour work weeks further fueled the unions’ resolve to protest against policies that prioritize profits over human welfare.
Amarjeet Kaur, General Secretary of AITUC, emphasized that the strike was not just about workers’ rights but also about addressing unemployment and supporting farmers and agricultural laborers. She criticized the government for curbing trade union rights and promoting policies that favor a few large corporates, deterring foreign investment due to lack of equitable growth. The Bharat Bandh was a call to prepare the working class and farming community for a prolonged struggle against these policies.
The Government’s Response and Union Reactions
The Union Labour Ministry claimed on July 8, 2025, that 213 unions, including the RSS-backed Bharatiya Mazdoor Sangh (BMS), had informed it that they would not participate in the Bharat Bandh. The ministry suggested that the strike’s impact would be limited due to this lack of support. However, the central trade unions refuted this claim, accusing the government of trying to intimidate workers and downplay the strike’s significance. They asserted that the mobilization of 25 crore workers would ensure the strike’s success, regardless of the ministry’s statements.
The unions’ determination was evident in their coordinated efforts, including roadblocks, rail roko (stopping railways), and protest marches across the country. They appealed to the public to support their struggle, framing it as a fight to protect national resources from corporate capture. The participation of farmers’ groups and public sector employees from diverse industries further strengthened the strike’s impact, making it a formidable challenge to the government’s policies.
What’s Next for the Bharat Bandh Movement?
The Bharat Bandh on July 9, 2025, was a powerful statement of resistance, but the unions have warned that it is only the beginning. If the government fails to address their 17-point charter of demands, the agitation is likely to escalate in the coming days. The unions have a history of organizing large-scale strikes, with similar actions in 2020, 2022, and 2024 drawing millions of workers to the streets. These protests have consistently demanded pro-labour policies and the rollback of contentious economic reforms, indicating a sustained movement against the government’s agenda.
For Rajasthan’s banking sector, the strike highlighted the critical role of public sector banks in serving the public and the risks posed by privatization. The closure of government banks underscored the employees’ commitment to protecting their institutions and ensuring that they continue to prioritize financial inclusion and public welfare. The joint demonstration at the Labour Commissioner’s office in Jaipur symbolized the unity among workers from different sectors, reinforcing the message that their demands are interconnected and urgent.
The broader implications of the Bharat Bandh extend beyond immediate disruptions. The strike has sparked a national conversation about labour rights, economic inequality, and the future of public sector institutions. It has also brought farmers’ issues, such as MSP and loan waivers, back into the spotlight, highlighting the need for comprehensive agricultural reforms. As India continues its journey toward economic growth, the Bharat Bandh serves as a reminder that progress must be inclusive, equitable, and responsive to the needs of workers and farmers.
How Can the Public Support the Bharat Bandh?
The unions have urged the public to support their struggle, emphasizing that the Bharat Bandh is not just about workers’ rights but about protecting national resources and ensuring a fair economy. Here are some ways individuals can show solidarity with the striking workers:
- Stay Informed: Follow reliable news sources and union statements to understand the demands and impact of the Bharat Bandh. Podcasts like In Focus by The Hindu provide valuable insights into the reasons behind the strike.
- Support Local Workers: Engage with workers in your community, such as bank employees, postal workers, or scheme workers, to learn about their challenges and show your support.
- Advocate for Change: Use social media platforms to amplify the unions’ demands and raise awareness about issues like privatization, labour codes, and farmers’ rights. Share credible information to counter misinformation.
- Plan Ahead: If you rely on public services like banking or transportation, plan your activities to minimize disruptions during strikes. Use digital banking or private bank services when government banks are closed.
- Participate in Discussions: Join conversations about labour rights and economic policies in your workplace or community to foster a deeper understanding of these issues.
By supporting the Bharat Bandh, the public can contribute to a movement that seeks to create a more just and equitable society for all Indians.
Bharat Bandh 2025 Overview Table
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Event Name | Bharat Bandh 2025 |
| Date | July 9, 2025 |
| Nature of Protest | Nationwide General Strike |
| Organized By | 10 Central Trade Unions (INTUC, AITUC, CITU, HMS, SEWA, LPF, UTUC, etc.) |
| Participation Scale | Over 25 crore workers across sectors |
| Main Sectors Affected | Banking, Insurance, Postal, Coal, Transport, Railways, Health, Education, Farming, Public Utilities |
| States with Major Impact | Rajasthan, Kerala, West Bengal, Tamil Nadu, Telangana, Jharkhand, Odisha, Bihar |
| Rajasthan Banking Impact | Around 11,000 bank employees joined; all govt banks closed (PNB, BoI, Indian Bank, Union Bank) |
| Private Banks Status in Rajasthan | Remained open (e.g., HDFC, ICICI, Axis); ATMs mostly functional |
| Local Protest Hub | March to Labour Commissioner’s Office, Hasanpura, Jaipur |
| Main Bank Employee Bodies | Rajasthan State Bank Employees Union, PNB Employees Union |
| Key Trade Union Leaders | A.R. Sindhu (CITU), Amarjeet Kaur (AITUC), Mahesh Mishra, T.C. Jhalani |
Top 10 Core Demands of the Bharat Bandh
| Demand Area | Key Points |
|---|---|
| 1. Banking Sector | Stop privatization of PSBs; effective recovery of corporate NPAs |
| 2. Pension Reforms | Reinstate Old Pension Scheme (OPS); Rs 9,000 minimum EPFO pension |
| 3. Working Hours | Implement 5-day banking week |
| 4. Employment Security | Ban outsourcing and contractual jobs; recruit permanent staff |
| 5. Wages | Rs 26,000 minimum wage; equal pay for equal work |
| 6. Tax Reform | Remove GST on life and health insurance premiums |
| 7. Labor Codes | Repeal 4 new Labour Codes deemed anti-worker |
| 8. Agricultural Sector | MSP as per Swaminathan Formula (C2 + 50%); loan waiver |
| 9. Scheme Workers | Recognize Anganwadi, ASHA, Mid-day meal workers as government employees with ESIC benefits |
| 10. Social Spending | Increase budget for education, healthcare, and social security |
State-Wise Highlights of Bharat Bandh
| State | Key Events |
|---|---|
| Kerala | Shops, buses, and public transport shut; major bandh-like situation |
| West Bengal | Rail roko in multiple districts; bus drivers wore helmets during protests |
| Tamil Nadu | Roadblocks in Chennai & Erode; major traffic disruptions |
| Telangana | Transport and shops closed; trucks parked outside Hyderabad |
| Jharkhand | Coal workers led strikes; industrial activity affected |
| Odisha | Highway and railway blockades; train disruptions |
| Bihar | Students’ wing blocked rail tracks; major rail delays |
| Karnataka | Minor impact in Bengaluru; protest march in Mysuru |
| Rajasthan | Government banks closed; united march in Jaipur |
Reasons Behind the Bharat Bandh
| Issue | Union Perspective |
|---|---|
| Privatization Push | Seen as endangering public service delivery and job security |
| Labour Reforms | Viewed as weakening collective bargaining and strike rights |
| Corporate Favoritism | Alleged bias towards large businesses over small farmers and workers |
| Economic Inequality | Rising prices, stagnant wages, and increased GST burden |
| Suppression of Workers’ Rights | Trade unions claim shrinking space for protest and negotiation |
How the Public Can Support the Bharat Bandh
| Actionable Steps | Benefits |
|---|---|
| Stay Informed | Helps counter misinformation and understand workers’ grievances |
| Support Local Workers | Builds solidarity and community engagement |
| Amplify the Cause | Share credible content on social media to raise awareness |
| Plan Smartly | Adjust schedules on strike days to reduce dependency on impacted services |
| Engage in Dialogue | Participate in meaningful conversations about rights and reforms |
The Road Ahead: What’s Next?
| Future Outlook | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Escalation Likely | If demands are not met, more intense nationwide protests may follow |
| Policy Pressure | Increased pressure on the government to revisit labor and economic reforms |
| Sectoral Unity | Greater coordination between farmers, workers, and public sector employees |
| Public Discourse | Renewal of national discussions on privatization, pensions, and social equity |
| Potential Reforms | Government may be forced to negotiate or revise contentious policies |
Conclusion: A Call for Unity and Change
The Bharat Bandh on July 9, 2025, was a historic moment in India’s labour movement, uniting over 25 crore workers and farmers in a collective stand against anti-worker and anti-farmer policies. In Rajasthan, the closure of government banks and the participation of 11,000 employees underscored the strength of the banking sector’s resolve to protect public institutions and demand fair treatment. The 17-point charter of demands, ranging from opposition to privatization to calls for a minimum wage of Rs 26,000, reflects the urgent need for systemic change in India’s economic and labour policies.
As the unions warn of escalating agitations, the Bharat Bandh serves as a wake-up call for the government to address these demands and prioritize the welfare of workers and farmers. For the public, it is an opportunity to stand in solidarity with those fighting for a fairer future. By understanding the reasons behind the strike and supporting its goals, we can contribute to a movement that seeks to build an inclusive and equitable India. Stay informed, stay engaged, and let’s work together for a better tomorrow.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) on Bharat Bandh 2025
Q1. What is Bharat Bandh 2025 and why was it organized?
A: Bharat Bandh 2025 was a nationwide general strike held on July 9, 2025, organized by 10 major central trade unions representing over 25 crore workers. The strike was a collective protest against the central government’s policies perceived as anti-worker, anti-farmer, and pro-corporate. Workers from sectors like banking, insurance, transport, agriculture, and public services joined forces to demand fair wages, rollback of privatization, and labour-friendly reforms.
Q2. Which sectors were most affected by the Bharat Bandh?
A: The strike impacted a wide range of sectors, including public sector banks, insurance, postal services, coal mining, telecom (BSNL), railways, power, defense, and essential services such as Anganwadi, ASHA, mid-day meal, and farm labour. The shutdown led to disrupted services, especially in banking, transport, and public utilities in several states.
Q3. How did Bharat Bandh 2025 affect Rajasthan’s banking sector?
A: In Rajasthan, approximately 11,000 employees from major public sector banks like Punjab National Bank, Indian Bank, Union Bank, and Bank of India participated in the strike. All government bank branches were closed for the day, halting services such as cheque clearances, deposits, and loans. However, private banks like HDFC and ICICI remained operational, and most ATMs functioned normally.
Q4. Who were the main organizers and supporters of the strike?
A: Ten major central trade unions led the movement, including the AITUC, INTUC, CITU, HMS, SEWA, LPF, and UTUC. The strike also received backing from farmers’ groups like the Samyukta Kisan Morcha, public sector employees, and worker unions across both formal and informal economies.
Q5. What were the key demands of the Bharat Bandh movement?
A: The protest was centered on a 17-point charter of demands. Key demands included:
- Opposition to bank privatization
- Reinstatement of the Old Pension Scheme (OPS)
- Implementation of a five-day banking week
- Ban on outsourcing and contractual employment
- Recovery of corporate NPAs
- Minimum wage of Rs 26,000
- Repeal of the four labour codes
- Agricultural reforms including guaranteed MSP and farmer loan waivers
- Recognition and benefits for scheme workers (ASHA, Anganwadi, etc.)
Q6. What was the significance of the labour codes in this protest?
A: The four new labour codes passed by Parliament have been a key concern. Unions argue they weaken worker protections, make it harder to strike, extend working hours, and shield employers from accountability. Protesters demanded these codes be scrapped to protect collective bargaining rights and job security.
Q7. Did Bharat Bandh 2025 receive support from all unions?
A: While the strike was supported by a majority of central trade unions, the Union Labour Ministry claimed that 213 unions, including the RSS-affiliated Bharatiya Mazdoor Sangh (BMS), did not participate. However, the protesting unions contested this and highlighted massive turnout nationwide.
Q8. Which states saw the strongest impact of the Bharat Bandh?
A: The bandh caused major disruptions in states like Kerala, West Bengal, Odisha, Tamil Nadu, Telangana, Jharkhand, Bihar, and Rajasthan. Activities such as road blockades, rail roko (train stoppages), and shop closures were reported. In cities like Jaipur and Kozhikode, public services came to a standstill.
Q9. Why is bank privatization a major issue for workers?
A: Public sector bank employees fear that privatization would reduce job security, compromise financial inclusion, and lead to profit-driven banking at the cost of rural and small-scale borrowers. They cite previous mergers and the privatization of IDBI Bank as examples of harmful trends.
Q10. What are the unions demanding for farmers?
A: Farmers’ organizations aligned with the strike demanded:
- A legally guaranteed Minimum Support Price (MSP) based on the Swaminathan Commission formula (C2 + 50%)
- Complete loan waivers for small and marginal farmers
- Protection from corporate exploitation in agriculture
Q11. How did the general public respond to the Bharat Bandh?
A: Public response varied by region. In some areas, local support for the cause was visible through voluntary participation, reduced transport, and closed marketplaces. In other areas like Bengaluru, the impact was limited. Overall, the strike raised awareness about the growing discontent among workers and farmers.
Q12. What was the government’s response to the protest?
A: The Labour Ministry downplayed the scale of the strike, citing low union participation. However, protest leaders criticized the government for attempting to suppress labour rights and failing to address their core issues. The central unions emphasized that the massive turnout indicated the seriousness of the concerns raised.
Q13. Is Bharat Bandh 2025 a one-time event or part of a larger movement?
A: Union leaders have stated that this is just the beginning. If the government fails to meet their demands, further nationwide agitations are expected. The strike is part of a larger, ongoing struggle to secure pro-labour and pro-farmer reforms.
Q14. How can citizens support the goals of Bharat Bandh?
A: The public can support the movement by:
- Staying informed through reliable sources
- Discussing labour issues in local communities
- Amplifying genuine demands on social media
- Respecting the cause by cooperating during strikes
- Advocating for policy changes that promote fairness and inclusion
Q15. What does Bharat Bandh 2025 signify for India’s future?
A: Bharat Bandh 2025 signifies a growing demand for economic justice, workers’ rights, and inclusive policy-making. It calls on the government to rethink privatization, strengthen social security, and address rising inequality. The protest is a powerful reminder that sustainable development must include the voices of those who build the nation — its workers and farmers.