Samyukt Kisan Morcha (SKM) has called for a nationwide ‘Bharat Bandh’ on Thursday, February 12, as part of its protest against the recently announced India–US trade deal. The shutdown call is backed by a joint platform of 10 central trade unions, including INTUC, AITUC, HMS, CITU, AIUTUC, TUCC, SEWA, AICCTU, LPF, and UTUC.
Bharat Bandh: What may be affected
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Schools and colleges in some states, including Kerala, Karnataka, and Odisha, may remain closed if local groups extend support.
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Markets and local shops could be partially or fully shut in areas witnessing strong participation.
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Banking services may face disruptions depending on employee involvement, with some branches operating with limited staff.
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Public transport, particularly state-run buses and local services, may be impacted, leading to delays or reduced frequency.
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Traffic movement in several cities could be affected due to protests or road blockades.
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Private offices are largely expected to function as usual.
Services likely to remain operational
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Emergency services, including hospitals and healthcare facilities, are expected to run normally.
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Ambulance services are unlikely to be disrupted.
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Airlines and railway services are scheduled to operate, though passengers are advised to check for updates due to possible local delays.
SKM’s objections
Speaking to ANI, SKM Convenor Hannan Mollah criticised the trade agreement, alleging it would harm Indian farmers. He argued that cheaper imports could overwhelm domestic markets, making it difficult for Indian agricultural produce to compete.
“The agreement will be a betrayal of farmers,” Mollah said, claiming the deal favours stronger economies at the expense of weaker ones. He also expressed concern that an influx of foreign goods could severely impact rural livelihoods.
SKM said it had conducted outreach programmes among farmers ahead of the bandh and reiterated its opposition to trade arrangements it believes could undermine India’s agricultural sector.
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