New Delhi, February 12, 2026 — India woke up to a nationwide Bharat Bandh today, with major trade unions and farmers’ groups leading the charge against new labour laws and the government’s broader economic policies. The strike is playing out across several states, and it’s hitting everything from banks to buses, markets, and public offices.
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Why’s Everyone Striking?
This isn’t just another protest. Over ten central trade unions and a host of farmers’ organisations called the “Bharat Bandh 2026” to push back against the government’s four new Labour Codes. They say these laws gut worker protections and make jobs more precarious. People are also demanding the return of the Old Pension Scheme, the withdrawal of bills they see as anti-worker or anti-farmer, and action on rural economic problems.
Union leaders aren’t holding back. Privatisation, job security, and social safety nets are all on their list of grievances. Farmers under the Sanyukt Kisan Morcha have thrown in their support too, tying the protest to bigger issues—agriculture, power bills, and the struggle for rural jobs.
Where’s the Biggest Impact?
Banks:
The RBI hasn’t declared an official bank holiday, but big unions like AIBEA, AIBOA, and BEFI are on strike. So, don’t be surprised if your local branch is closed or running on a skeleton crew. Banking services are definitely taking a hit, especially in places where unions are strong.
Transport:
State buses and local transit in cities like Bengaluru are stalled or running late as staff join the protest. If you’re traveling, expect delays and last-minute changes. Some routes are just stuck.
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Government Offices and Schools:
It’s a mixed bag. In some states, government offices are half-empty. Schools and colleges are closed in areas where local officials or staff are backing the bandh, but in other places, things are carrying on with backup plans.
Markets and Daily Life:
Kerala and Karnataka, in particular, are seeing shops and markets closed—some partially, others completely—as people stay home to support the strike. Emergency services and critical infrastructure are still up and running, though.
Spotlight on Karnataka
Karnataka, especially Bengaluru, is feeling the pinch. Banking and public transport are way down because a lot of workers are out. Whether schools and government offices are open depends on what district officials decide. Locals are being told to check for updates before heading out.
Other states—Kerala, Punjab, Assam, Odisha, West Bengal—are all seeing different levels of participation, but with both unions and farmers involved, the disruptions are widespread.
What You Need to Know Right Now
Is today Bharat Bandh? Yes, February 12, 2026, is officially Bharat Bandh, with trade unions and farmers leading a nationwide strike.
Are banks open? Many banks are closed or working with limited staff, especially where union support is strong. There’s no official RBI holiday, but expect delays.
How’s transport? Disrupted in many cities. Check local schedules before you leave home.
Schools and colleges? Some are closed, some aren’t—it depends on local decisions and how many staff are joining the strike.
Bottom line: Keep an eye on official updates and local news. Today’s strike is big, and it’s affecting daily life across the country.
