The call comes from over 10 central trade unions (think INTUC, AITUC, CITU, HMS, and more) plus farmer groups like Samyukt Kisan Morcha. They’re claiming a enormous turnout—up to 30 crore workers across 600+ districts—protesting what they call anti-worker and anti-farmer policies. Key moan? Rescind the four new labour codes (which they say hurt job security and rights), drop bills like the Seed Bill and Electricity alteration, halt privatisation pushes, and push back on that India-US trade deal they fear could flood markets with cheap essence and kill local jobs. It’s basically a big shout for better wages, social security, and protections.
Now, the real talk: it’s not a total lockdown like some old-school bandhs. India doesn’t censure down uniformly—impact depends heavily on the almost cities, states, and how strong unions are regionally. In places like Kerala, Odisha, parts of Karnataka, or even some Delhi-NCR pockets, things could feel pretty noiseless with disapproval, rallies, and road blocks. In Bengaluru or more private-sector heavy areas, life might roll on closer to normal. Here in Delhi, expect some snag but not a complete freeze.
What’s likely shut or heavily disrupted:
Public sector banks — This is the biggest one. Unions like AIBEA, AIBOA, and BEFI are fully in, so branches (SBI, Bank of Baroda, UCO, etc.) could run skeleton staff, limited counters, or even close in spots. Banks have warned customers—ATMs should mostly work, online banking too, but don’t plan on walking in for complex stuff.
Public transport — State buses (KSRTC, DTC in some areas), local autos/taxis might be sparse or stopped in protest zones. Traffic jams from marches? Very possible.
Government offices & PSUs — Low attendance expected; many could be partially closed or slow.
Markets & shops — In union-strong areas, local bazaars and small shops might stay shuttered.
Schools/colleges — No nationwide holiday declared, but in states like Kerala, Karnataka, Odisha, many might declare a holiday or see super low turnout due to transport woes.
What’s staying open (mostly):
Hospitals, ambulances, emergencies — Full go, no disruptions expected.
Airports & flights — Normal operations.
Private offices/IT/corporates — Usually business as usual, though some folks might join protests.
Private banks — Less impacted than public ones.
Railways — Indian Railways isn’t officially striking, so trains should run (possible delays if staff participate).
Metros — In cities like Delhi, likely running per schedule.
Essentials — Milk, pharmacies, fuel pumps—should be fine.
Bottom line: Plan ahead, especially if you’re in Delhi or any protest hotspot. Use UPI/apps for money stuff, stock up on basics tonight if needed, and check local traffic/news apps tomorrow morning. It’s a workers’ rights thing, so respect whichever side you’re on, but stay safe out there—no need for unnecessary hassles.
Sources:
The Hindu
Times of India
Business Standard
The Economic Times
Moneycontrol
News18
PTI reports across major outlets
