Bharat Bandh On February 12: What’s Open And Closed Across India And Why It’s Happening

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If you have office, school runs, bank work or travel plans on Thursday, February 12, 2026, you'll want to read this carefully. A nationwide general strike or Bharat Bandh has been called, and it could affect transport, banking, markets and public services across several states. Here's a clear breakdown of why the bandh is happening, who's behind it, and what you can expect on the ground.

Photo Credit: Oneindia

Why Has Bharat Bandh Been Called?

The strike has been announced by a joint forum of 10 central trade unions, including INTUC, AITUC, HMS, CITU, AIUTUC, TUCC, SEWA, AICCTU, LPF and UTUC. Several major farmers' organisations are also backing the protest.

The protest is centred around three major concerns:

1. New Labour Codes

Trade unions argue that the four labour codes introduced in late 2025 dilute worker protections. These codes replace 29 existing labour laws, and unions claim the new framework weakens job security, collective bargaining power and workers' rights.

2. India-US Trade Deal Concerns

Farmers' groups, including the Samyukt Kisan Morcha, have raised objections to a recent India-US trade deal. Their concern: Cheaper imports could enter Indian markets in large quantities, affecting domestic agriculture and farmer incomes.

3. Other Policy Demands

Unions are also demanding the withdrawal of bills such as the Draft Seed Bill, Electricity Amendment Bill and SHANTI Act, along with the restoration of MGNREGA and rollback of certain recent labour and employment-related reforms.

In short, this bandh is positioned as a protest against labour and agriculture policy changes that unions believe could hurt workers and farmers.

What Is Likely To Be Closed Or Disrupted?

The actual impact will depend heavily on how strongly the bandh is observed in your state or city. Some areas may see major shutdowns; others may function almost normally.

Here's what is expected based on reports so far:

Banks

• Major bank unions such as AIBEA, AIBOA and BEFI have urged members to participate in the strike.
• Public sector bank branches may operate with reduced staff.
• Services like cash transactions, cheque clearances and counter operations could be delayed.
• There is no official RBI-declared bank holiday, so technically banks are not formally closed nationwide.

Which means branches may open, but don't expect smooth, full-capacity service everywhere.

State And Local Transport

This is where disruptions are most likely.

• State-run buses and some local transport unions are expected to support the bandh, which could mean partial or full suspension in some regions.
• Trains and flights are scheduled to operate, but reaching stations or airports could be challenging if there are road blockages or protests.
• Metro services in major cities are expected to run, though stations near protest hotspots may be affected.

If you have travel plans, factor in extra time.

Schools And Colleges

There is no nationwide closure order.

However, local conditions matter:

• States like Kerala, Karnataka and Odisha may see closures depending on transport disruptions and institutional decisions.
• Many schools and colleges may issue last-minute notices.
• Parents should keep an eye on official communication from institutions.

Government Offices And Businesses

Government offices and PSUs may operate with limited staff.

• In areas with strong union participation, offices may remain shut.
• Several local traders' associations have suggested market closures in solidarity.
• Expect variability - some markets may shut completely, others may open for half a day.

Commercial Establishments

Local markets and small businesses in protest-heavy regions may remain closed or operate for limited hours. Malls and larger private establishments are more likely to function, though footfall may be lower.

What Is Expected To Remain Open?

Even during a Bharat Bandh, certain services are typically exempt.

Essential And Emergency Services

• Hospitals
• Ambulances
• Medical stores and pharmacies
• Fire and rescue services
• Milk and essential supply deliveries

These are expected to function normally.

Utilities And Media

• Water supply
• Electricity services
• Newspaper printing and distribution

No official disruptions are anticipated here.

Air, Rail And Digital Services

• Flights and trains are scheduled to run.
• Online banking, ATMs and digital payment platforms are expected to work.
• Some banking services may slow due to reduced staff participation.
• Digital transactions will likely be your safest bet if physical branches are affected.

Regional Variations To Keep In Mind

The intensity of the bandh will differ across states.

• Kerala is expected to witness a near-total shutdown of non-essential services, with exemptions for emergency services and pilgrim transport such as Sabarimala routes.
• Karnataka and Odisha may see localised shutdowns of schools, banks, government offices and markets depending on union mobilisation.

In other states, the impact may range from mild inconvenience to noticeable disruption.

Practical Tips For February 12

If you want to avoid last-minute stress:

• Finish urgent banking and government work before February 12.
• Check school and college notifications directly.
• Leave early if you have flights or trains.
• Use digital payments where possible.
• Avoid protest-prone areas if not necessary.

What This Means For You

A Bharat Bandh doesn't automatically mean the entire country shuts down. It means uncertainty varies by location. In some cities, life may slow dramatically. In others, it may feel like a regular weekday with lighter traffic and fewer open shops.

If February 12 is a crucial day for you, plan ahead. If not, expect some disruption, stay updated locally, and keep flexibility in your schedule.

The Key Takeaway: Essential services will function, transport may be patchy, banks could operate with limited capacity, and local conditions will decide the real impact.