Bharat Bandh February 12, 2026: Will Banks, Schools, And Markets Remain Closed?

Bharat Bandh February 12, 2026: India is set to witness a nationwide protest called Bharat Bandh on February 12, 2026. This strike has been organised by several central trade unions and farmer groups to voice their concerns over labour laws and other policies. The bandh is expected to affect daily life in many parts of the country. Here’s what might open and what may remain closed during the bandh. 

Bharat Bandh On February 12, 2026

The Bharat Bandh on February 12, 2026 is more than just a protest. It is a 24-hour nationwide strike being called by multiple central trade unions and farmers’ organisations. A joint forum of 10 central trade unions has announced a strike, which might disrupt roads and daily activities. The unions involved are INTUC, TUCC, SEWA, AICCTU, AITUC, HMS, CITU, AIUTUC, LPF, and UTUC, according to the latest media reports.

Amarjeet Kaur, All India Trade Union Congress General Secretary was quoted by PTI saying, “Not less than 30 crore workers will participate in the strike called on February 12 (Thursday).” The unions have circulated protest notices in various sectors, demanding withdrawal of:

• 4 labour codes and rules

• Draft Seed Bill

• Electricity Amendment Bill

• Sustainable Harnessing and Advancement of Nuclear Energy for Transforming India (SHANTI Act)

Will Banks Be Closed On February 12, 2026?

• There’s no official bank holiday declared by the Reserve Bank of India for February 12, 2026. 

• Banks may remain officially open, but services at counters could be affected in many areas.

Will Schools and Colleges Be Closed On February 12, 2026?

• There is no nationwide order for schools and colleges to close on February 12, 2026. Most educational institutions are likely to follow their normal calendars. 

• However, in some states where the strike is strong like Kerala, Karnataka and Odisha, local schools and colleges may announce closures or hold holidays if teachers and staff decide to take part in the strike or if transport is disrupted.

• Parents and students should check official notices from their schools before the bandh day to be sure.

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Will Markets, Shops, And Businesses Remain Open On February 12, 2026?

• How markets and shops on 12 February depend largely on the local mood and participation in the bandh.

• Markets and shops in areas (Kerala, Odisha and parts of Karnataka) with heavy protest activity may remain closed or operate at reduced hours as owners choose to support the strike. 

• However, major market places in big cities and essential shops are likely to stay open so that people can buy daily goods and services without much trouble.

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Will Transport And Emergency Services Available On February 12, 2026?

• Public transport such as buses, taxis and local services may face disruptions or delays, especially in protest-affected zones  (Kerala, Odisha and parts of Karnataka). 

• Government offices and private workplaces may see reduced attendance, and some departments could choose to shut temporarily if employees join the strike. 

• Emergency services, hospitals, ambulances, electricity, water supply and airports are expected to operate as usual.
  
  

If you have plans on February 12, 2026, it’s good to check updates from local authorities before the day of the bandh.

For more such stories, stay tuned to HerZindagi. 

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