Essential services across India are expected to face significant disruptions tomorrow, February 12, as 10 Central Trade Unions (CTUs) launch a nationwide general strike. Protesting against the four new Labour Codes notified in November 2025 and the proposed India-US trade deal, union leaders expect participation from nearly 30 crore workers. The strike has garnered strong support from the Samyukta Kisan Morcha (SKM) and major banking federations like AIBEA and BEFI.+2

The Core Demands: The trade unions argue that the new Labour Codes weaken workers’ rights, reduce job security, and favor corporate interests. Meanwhile, farmers fear that the interim trade framework with the US will lead to a flood of cheap imports, damaging domestic agriculture. Key demands include the restoration of MGNREGA, scrapping the new labour codes, and halting the privatization of public sector undertakings.+2

Expected Impact:

• Banking: Public sector banks, including SBI and IDBI, have cautioned customers that branch-level operations such as cash deposits, withdrawals, and cheque clearances may be delayed. Digital banking and ATMs are expected to function normally.
• Transport & Markets: States like Odisha, Kerala, and Karnataka are expected to witness the maximum impact. Public transport, local markets, and industrial units may remain shut in these regions due to “Chakka Jam” calls.+1
• Education: While there is no national directive to close schools and colleges, institutions in protest-heavy areas of Odisha and Kerala may remain closed for safety reasons.
• Exemptions: Essential services such as hospitals, pharmacies, milk supply, and emergency utilities (water/electricity) will remain fully operational. Airports and railway stations will function, though travelers are advised to account for potential traffic delays.