A nationwide general strike, initiated by over 25 crore workers, is planned for Wednesday, July 9. This Bharat Bandh, organized by a coalition of ten central trade unions, will involve various sectors, including banking, insurance, postal services, coal mining, and highways. The strike is a protest against the government’s economic policies. Farmers and rural workers may also participate, potentially causing significant disruptions across the country. The primary demands of the workers include addressing unemployment through the filling of vacant positions, job creation, increased MNREGA workdays, and higher wages. They are also advocating for an urban MNREGA-like scheme and a reconsideration of the Employment Linked Incentive Scheme (ELI). Banking, insurance, postal services, coal mining, highways, and construction sectors are likely to be most affected. Schools and colleges are expected to remain open as no official closures have been announced.
