Nationwide Strike Set for July 9: Key Industries Face Disruption as Millions Protest Government Policies

A nationwide strike is anticipated to impact key sectors on Wednesday, July 9th, with expectations of over 250 million workers participating. This widespread industrial action stems from a unified front comprising ten central trade unions, backed by organizations representing farmers and rural workers. Their collective grievance targets the central government's policies, which they denounce as "anti-worker, anti-farmer, and pro-corporate."

Here are ten crucial points regarding the July 9th Bharat Bandh, including details on potential service disruptions:

Who's Orchestrating the Strike?

A coalition of ten prominent trade unions is spearheading the strike: INTUC, AITUC, CITU, HMS, AIUTUC, AICCTU, SEWA, LPF, UTUC, and TUCC. These unions have united on a common platform to voice their opposition to the government's labor and economic strategies.

What's the Impetus Behind the Strike?

The core of the protest revolves around seventeen unresolved demands presented by the unions to Labour Minister Mansukh Mandaviya the previous year. A primary concern is the government's perceived inaction in addressing labor grievances and the prolonged absence of the Indian Labour Conference, which hasn't convened in a decade.

Labor Codes Sparking Discontent

The labor codes passed by Parliament have faced strong opposition from unions. They argue that these codes weaken workers' rights, diminish union influence, extend working hours, and decriminalize employer violations of labor regulations.

Accusations of Corporate Favoritism

In a joint statement, the trade unions accuse the government of forsaking the concept of a welfare state in favor of prioritizing the interests of domestic and international corporations. They assert that the current administration is aggressively pursuing policies that promote privatization, outsourcing, and the casualization of the workforce.

Which Sectors Face Impact?

Several key industries are braced for potential disruptions, including:

• Banking and financial services
• Postal services
• Coal mining and factories
• State transport
• Public sector units
• Employees from companies like NMDC and other government-run steel and mineral firms are also expected to join the strike.

Will Bank Operations Halt?

While official confirmation of bank closures is pending, organizers suggest that employees from public sector and cooperative banks will participate, potentially impacting branch operations, cheque processing, and customer service in various regions.

Support from Agricultural Sector

The Samyukta Kisan Morcha and various agricultural labor unions have pledged their support. They are planning large-scale mobilizations in rural areas, expressing concerns about rising unemployment, inflation, and cuts in education, healthcare, and welfare programs.

Impact on Schools, Colleges, and Offices?

Educational institutions and private offices are generally expected to remain open, although some disruptions cannot be entirely ruled out. Public transportation, including buses, taxis, and app-based cab services, might experience disruptions in select cities due to roadblocks and protest marches.

What Services Remain Operational?

Schools, colleges, and private businesses are likely to continue operations unless local conditions dictate otherwise.

Essential services, such as hospitals, emergency services, and law enforcement, are expected to function normally, although road access may be temporarily affected in certain areas.

History of Trade Union Actions

This strike is not an isolated event. Similar nationwide strikes occurred on November 26, 2020, March 28–29, 2022, and February 16, 2024, each garnering significant participation from both the public and private sectors.

Consequently, both urban and rural areas may experience service slowdowns, commuter delays, and increased political activity. Organizers are calling upon workers across all sectors to ensure the "grand success" of the strike, while the public is advised to plan their day accordingly.