Nationwide Strike: Key Services Face Disruption as Millions Protest Government Policies

A nationwide strike is anticipated to impact various sectors on Wednesday, July 9, with an expected participation of over 250 million workers, according to recent reports. This widespread protest is spearheaded by a united front of 10 central trade unions, backed by organizations representing farmers and rural workers. Their collective aim is to voice opposition against what they perceive as "anti-worker, anti-farmer, and pro-corporate" policies implemented by the central government.

Here's a breakdown of the key aspects of the July 9 Bharat Bandh, including potential disruptions:

Who's Orchestrating the Strike?

The strike is being organised by a coalition of 10 prominent trade unions: INTUC, AITUC, CITU, HMS, AIUTUC, AICCTU, SEWA, LPF, UTUC, and TUCC. These unions have united to challenge the government's current labour and economic strategies.

What's the Impetus Behind the Protest?

The core of the protest lies in 17 unresolved demands presented to Labour Minister Mansukh Mandaviya last year by the unions. A primary grievance is the government's alleged neglect of labour concerns and the prolonged absence of the Indian Labour Conference, which has not been convened for a decade.

Labour Codes: A Source of Major Conflict

The unions are vehemently protesting the four labour codes approved by Parliament. They claim these codes undermine worker rights, weaken union influence, extend working hours, and decriminalize employer violations of labour regulations.

Corporate Bias Allegations

In a joint statement, the trade unions accused the government of abandoning the principles of a welfare state in favor of prioritizing the interests of both domestic and international corporations. They assert that the current government is aggressively pursuing policies that promote privatization, outsourcing, and the casualization of the workforce.

Which Industries Face Potential Disruptions?

Several key sectors are likely to experience disruptions, including:

• Banking and financial services
• Postal services
• Coal mining and factories
• State transport
• Public sector units
• Employees of companies such as NMDC, along with other government-operated steel and mineral enterprises, are also expected to participate in the strike.

Will Banks Be Affected?

While banking unions have not officially announced closures, organizers indicate that employees from public sector and cooperative banks will participate, potentially impacting branch operations, cheque processing, and customer service in multiple regions.

Support from Agricultural Sector

The Samyukta Kisan Morcha and various agricultural labour unions have pledged their support. They are planning large-scale mobilizations in rural areas, expressing concerns about rising unemployment, inflation, and budget cuts affecting education, healthcare, and welfare programs.

Impact on Educational Institutions and Offices

Schools, colleges, and private offices are anticipated to remain open, although some disruptions cannot be ruled out. Public transportation, including buses, taxis, and ride-hailing services, might face interruptions in certain cities due to roadblocks and protest marches.

Essential Services

Essential services, such as hospitals, emergency services, and law enforcement, are expected to operate as usual, although access to roads could be temporarily affected in some areas.

Previous Union Actions

This is not the first instance of unions joining forces for collective action. Similar nationwide strikes occurred on November 26, 2020, March 28–29, 2022, and February 16, 2024, each garnering significant participation from both public and private sectors.

As the nationwide strike approaches, both urban and rural areas should anticipate potential slowdowns in services, commuting delays, and increased political activity. Organizers are urging workers across all sectors to ensure the "grand success" of the strike, while the general public is advised to make necessary adjustments to their daily plans.