Nationwide Bharat Bandh Called on 9 July 2025: Protests Disrupt Daily Life Across India

New Delhi, 8 July 2025 – A nationwide Bharat Bandh has been called for 9 July 2025 by various farmer unions and labor organizations in protest against a range of government policies. The shutdown is expected to affect transport, markets, and public services in several states, especially in the north and central regions.

The bandh has been called in response to demands including a legal guarantee for minimum support price, rollback of recent labor code changes, and concerns over privatization of public sector undertakings. Organizers say the protest is also aimed at highlighting growing unemployment and inflation.

According to statements from the coordinating committee, essential services such as hospitals, emergency medical care, and ambulances will be exempt from the shutdown. However, commercial establishments, schools, and public transport services in many parts of the country may be severely impacted.

In Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, and Bengaluru, police forces have been put on high alert. Section 144 has been imposed in select districts to prevent large gatherings. Several state governments have issued advisories to educational institutions to either remain closed or switch to online classes for the day.

The Confederation of All India Traders has announced it will not participate in the bandh, but added that individual traders may close shops voluntarily. Meanwhile, several opposition parties have extended support to the strike, calling it a “people’s movement.”

Long-distance train and bus services are likely to be disrupted in Punjab, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, and West Bengal, where farmer and labor unions have strong mobilization capacity. Commuters have been advised to plan their travel accordingly and avoid unnecessary movement during the bandh hours.

Security has been tightened at key government buildings, railway stations, and transport hubs. Authorities have also appealed to citizens to maintain peace and not engage in any unlawful activities.

The impact of the bandh will become clearer as the day unfolds, with citizens and businesses across the country bracing for a day of disruption and demonstrations.