Trade unions call nationwide Bharat Bandh today; will banks and ATMs remain closed?

New Delhi (The Uttam Hindu): A nationwide Bharat Bandh has been called today, Thursday (12 February), by a joint platform of central trade unions to protest against the central government’s alleged anti-worker policies and the new labour laws. The strike is expected to have a noticeable impact on banking services, as major banking unions have also joined the protest. Due to this, uncertainty is likely to prevail throughout the day regarding bank operations, and customers are worried about possible disruptions in routine transactions.

Although no official bank holiday has been announced, interruptions in services are likely. Major public sector banks such as State Bank of India (SBI), Bank of Baroda, and UCO Bank have informed the Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE) that their services may be affected during the Bharat Bandh. Bank of Baroda stated that while efforts will be made to maintain normal functioning, branch-level services may be disrupted if the strike intensifies. SBI has also said that despite making arrangements to ensure smooth operations, staff shortages could slow down or limit work at some branches. UCO Bank has issued a similar advisory. Customers have been advised to visit branches only if necessary and to rely on digital banking facilities.

The strike is being supported by major banking unions such as the All India Bank Employees Association (AIBEA), All India Bank Officers Association (AIBOA), and the Bank Employees Federation of India (BEFI), along with 10 central trade unions. The main objection is to the new labour laws, which unions claim are not worker-friendly and may make trade union registration more difficult. Bank employees are also demanding a five-day work week to improve work-life balance and are using the strike to press the government on these issues.

Public services are expected to be affected in several areas. Banking operations in public sector banks may be disrupted, public transport services could face interruptions, and work in government offices may slow down. In some regions, schools and colleges may remain closed due to safety concerns, and local markets may also shut partially.

However, essential services will continue. Hospitals, ambulances, medical stores, and fire services will function normally. While branch banking may be affected, online banking, UPI services, and ATMs are expected to operate smoothly. Air and rail services will also continue, though passengers may face delays due to traffic congestion. Water and electricity supply will remain normal.

The impact of the Bharat Bandh is expected to be more significant in Bengaluru, where bus services, local transport, government offices, post offices, and public sector units may remain shut. In several areas, shops, petrol pumps, and industrial units may also be closed, while private offices and delivery services could operate with limited staff.

Authorities have issued advisories asking people to avoid unnecessary travel, expect traffic congestion, and plan ahead, especially if travelling to airports or railway stations. The administration has stated that all necessary arrangements are in place to handle emergencies.