12 February Bharat Bandh, Check Reasons Behind the Nationwide Bank Strike

A countrywide Bharat Bandh has been announced for Thursday, 12 February 2026, with several central trade unions and farmer groups extending their support to the protest. The strike is expected to witness participation across multiple states, potentially affecting day-to-day activities and public services. While not every region may experience the same level of disruption, authorities and institutions have advised citizens to stay informed about local developments.

12 February Bharat Bandh

The strike has been called by a joint platform of prominent trade unions, backed by farmer organisations such as the Samyukt Kisan Morcha. The primary concern revolves around policy decisions taken by the central government, particularly the implementation of the four consolidated labour codes that replaced several earlier labour laws.

Core Demands of the 12 February Bharat Bandh

According to the unions, these codes may dilute worker safeguards, impact job security, and make union-related procedures more restrictive. Protesters are also raising broader economic and employment-related concerns, including demands linked to social welfare schemes like MGNREGA. Through this nationwide shutdown, organisers aim to draw attention to these issues and press for policy reconsideration.

What Services Could Be Affected?

The extent of disruption may vary from state to state depending on participation levels. However, certain sectors are more likely to experience interruptions:

• Banking Operations: Employee unions in the banking sector have extended support to the strike call. As a result, branch-level services such as cash transactions, cheque processing, and customer assistance desks may operate with limited staff or face temporary interruptions.
• Public Transport: State-run bus services and other public transport systems could see partial suspension in areas where transport unions are participating. Commuters may encounter delays or reduced frequency of services.
• Markets and Commercial Establishments: Retail outlets and wholesale markets in protest-heavy regions might remain shut as a mark of solidarity. However, essential commodity shops are generally expected to function.
• Government Offices: Attendance in certain departments could be lower than usual, which may slow administrative work in affected states.
• Essential services including healthcare facilities, emergency services, and utilities are expected to continue operating.

Why Bharat Bandh Matters

The Bharat Bandh matters because it reflects widespread concerns over labour, employment, and economic policies. It draws national attention to workers’ issues and pressures authorities to review or clarify reforms, highlighting the importance of democratic protest.

Will Banks Be Closed on 12 February?

The Reserve Bank of India has not declared 12 February as an official banking holiday. This means banks are scheduled to remain open as per the regular calendar. However, since banking unions are supporting the strike, customers may notice reduced staff availability in some branches. Routine services at physical counters could be slower or temporarily limited.

On the other hand, digital banking platforms such as ATMs, internet banking, mobile applications, and UPI services are expected to operate without interruption. Private sector banks may experience fewer disruptions compared to public sector institutions, depending on staff participation.

Will Schools and Colleges Remain Closed?

There has been no nationwide directive mandating closure of educational institutions. Most schools and colleges are expected to function normally unless local administrations decide otherwise based on the situation in their respective regions.

In states where participation in the strike is strong, institutions may issue their own notices regarding temporary closure or online classes. Students and parents are advised to check official communications from their schools or colleges for updates.

What About Transport and Markets?

• Transport Services: Public transport could operate on a restricted schedule in certain cities. In some locations, demonstrations or gatherings may lead to traffic diversions. Those planning travel are advised to verify local transport updates before commuting.
• Markets and Business Activity: Commercial hubs in areas with active participation may observe closures for the day. However, grocery stores, pharmacies, and other essential service providers are generally expected to remain accessible.

SBI Statement on Bharat Bandh

The State Bank of India (SBI) has officially alerted customers that a nationwide bank strike is scheduled for 12 February 2026, and as a result, banking services may be affected to a limited extent on that day. SBI has warned that work at branches could be impacted during the strike and advised customers to plan their transactions in advance. However, the bank did not announce February 12 as an official bank holiday, meaning branches are expected to remain open, though some routine services could be disrupted if staff participate in the strike.

Key points from SBI’s notice:

• Banking services may be disrupted  especially at physical branch counters.
• Customers are advised to complete routine banking work before February 12 if possible.
• Digital channels like mobile/internet banking, UPI, and ATMs are expected to function normally.
• This statement was made to help customers prepare and avoid inconvenience in case a large number of bank staff join the strike.