Bharat Bandh on February 12: Are banks, schools, colleges, transport and markets closed today? Know what’s open and what’s not

Bharat Bandh on February 12: A nationwide Bharat Bandh has been called for Thursday, February 12, 2026, by central trade unions along with farmer organisations, raising concerns about possible disruption to daily services across India. While there is no official shutdown, some disruption to banking, buses and local markets is possible in states where the bandh is widely observed. Essential services such as hospitals and emergency utilities are expected to continue.

Why trade unions and farmers have called the strike?

The bandh has been announced by a joint platform of 10 central trade unions, including INTUC, AITUC and CITU, with support from farmer groups such as the Samyukt Kisan Morcha.

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The trade unions are mainly protesting against the labour codes introduced in 2025. They claim the new changes dilute workers’ rights, reduce job security, and give employers more freedom to hire or remove staff more easily.

Farmer bodies have also raised objections to the proposed India–US trade deal, saying it could impact domestic agriculture and dairy sectors.

Other demands include opposition to privatisation, restoration of rural employment support, and better pension benefits for workers.

Will banks be shut tomorrow?

Public sector bank services may be affected on February 12 as major bank unions have indicated participation in the strike. SBI has warned that some branch services may be affected during the strike.

That said, educational institutions in some states may remain closed if local transport is disrupted or if bandh support is strong.

Schools may close in parts of Kerala, Odisha and Karnataka if the bandh is strongly observed. Parents and students should check local updates.

What about buses, trains and local travel?

Transport is usually the biggest area of disruption during a Bharat Bandh. In some areas, trade unions and farmer groups may organise road protests or “chakka jam”, which can affect:

• State-run bus services
• Auto-rickshaw movement
• Local commuting routes

Railways and airports are expected to operate normally, but travellers may face difficulty reaching stations or terminals if road blockades occur.

People with travel plans are advised to leave early and monitor local traffic advisories.

Will markets and shops remain open?

There is no formal directive to shut markets, but some local closures are possible in areas where the strike is strongly observed.

Wholesale markets and smaller shops in union-backed regions may remain partially closed, while bigger cities could see a mixed situation, with some neighbourhoods functioning normally and others affected by protests.

Which states may see the biggest impact?

The bandh’s impact is expected to vary from state to state. Kerala and Odisha are likely to be most affected, with disruptions also possible in parts of West Bengal, Assam and Karnataka. In cities like Delhi and Mumbai, most services may run as usual, though traffic and local transport could be affected in a few areas.

What should people do ahead of February 12?

With disruptions possible, citizens may want to plan ahead:

• Complete urgent bank work in advance
• Confirm school or college notices locally
• Avoid unnecessary travel during peak protest hours
• Keep extra time for airport or railway commutes